Jacqueline B Brock

Jacqueline—who was affectionately known as Jackie, Jack, Aunt Jackie, and Baby J—was born December 22, 1933, in Lake Village, Arkansas, to Alfred Gladstone Holmes and Irene Franklin Holmes, both of whom, along with her sisters, Louie Alice Porter and Zee Alfrin Hendrix, preceded her in death.

She leaves to cherish her fond memories: her husband, Gerald Brock, and her bonus children, Geraldine (Byron) Johnson of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and Kathy Brock of Southfield Michigan; her sister, Rosemarie Word of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and brother, Alfred Holmes (Ora) of Valparaiso, Indiana; a life-long special sister, Teola Hunter of Detroit, Michigan; her uncle, Henry Tolliver of Lake Village, Arkansas; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends who loved her dearly. She was a second mom to her nieces and nephews and always concerned about their well-being.

Jackie lived life to the fullest and regularly attended Mass in the cities where she resided. She delighted in entertaining friends and family, and had a celebrated flair for cooking, shopping, and decorating. She and Gerald vacationed often and especially enjoyed many golf and ski trips. She truly loved the best of everything.

Jackie’s early education began at Central Elementary and High School in Lake Village, Arkansas, graduating in the class of 1951. She continued her education at AM&N College in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, graduating in 1955 with a degree in English. She was awarded a Masters in Elementary Education from Indiana University. Jackie started her teaching career in Dermott, Arkansas, and later taught in Helena, Arkansas; Chicago, Illinois; and Detroit, Michigan.

While in college, Jackie pledged Delta Sigma Theta sorority and was a life member. She had many memberships in various social organizations in Detroit. She won several beauty contests and was crowned Miss WDIA (radio station) in Memphis, Tennessee in 1953 and Miss Supreme Liberty (Insurance) in Chicago in 1955. In 1957, Jackie was the first person of color to have her photograph displayed in a white studio in Bloomington, Indiana, prompting people to take a second look.

Upon her retirement, she and Gerald relocated to Sun Lakes, Arizona, to enjoy the Arizona Sun.

Jackie meant so much to so many. The unconditional kindness, generosity, and love she had for her family and friends—and the passion she displayed in her profession as an elementary school teacher—was absolute.

Jackie gave with an open heart, and we are forever grateful for her and will forever cherish her memory.

The family extends a heartfelt thank-you to those who showed special care and kindness for Jackie over the past few years, including Frances Naylor Johnson, Lorraine Swopes, Linda Brown and team, the staff at The Blake (Township), and Arden Hospice.