Elsie Romano Brooks

Elsie Romano Brooks, 91, Carmel, passed away on January 13, 2015. She was born December 22, 1923, in Bertha, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Domenico and Maria (Carancci) Romano. She married the love of her life, William Lynn Brooks on July 26, 1947. He preceded her in death. Elsie graduated as the Valedictorian from Schenley High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where, amongst many student activities, she loved the drama club; playing Juliet in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Later, while in the midst of raising five children, she earned her degree in nursing with honors and embarked on a long and dedicated career as a licensed practical nurse. A devout Catholic, Elsie was a Eucharistic Minister and volunteered for several years at St. Vincent Hospital – Carmel. In her free time, she was an avid reader and enjoyed ceramics and knitting afghan blankets. She was also a masterful cook; all of her children hold dear their copies of her cookbook, Cooking with Elsie, which contains some of her legendary recipes. But above all else, she cherished the time she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her children, William L. (Shelia) Brooks Jr, Dr. Kathleen (Robert) Scoble, Leslie (Peter) Doane, Jacqueline (Dr. Flint) Thomas, Deborah (William) Wood, along with 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by brothers Anthony and John Romano; and sisters Leonilda Romano and Adeline Madia. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 19, 2015, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 14598 Oakridge Road, Carmel, IN. Visitation is open to all and will be from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., Sunday, January 18, 2015, at Flanner and Buchanan, 325 E. Carmel Dr., Carmel, Indiana. After the public visitation the family will have a private prayer vigil. There will also be one hour of visitation at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church prior to the Mass. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Hydrocephalus Association. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.flannerbuchanan.com.