Sarah Elizabeth (Jackson) Brooks

Sarah Elizabeth Jackson Brooks, age 81, of Sanford, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at her home surrounded by family.

She was born in Lee County to the late Vivion Jackson and Helen Spivey Jackson.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Frank Jackson and sisters Louise Harris and Donna White.  Sarah worked many years at J.T. Davenport.  She was known for her love of family and cherished meals together with Johnny.  She also enjoyed watching wrestling on Friday evenings with Eduardo, getting her hair done every Saturday morning.  She loved attending the dances at Lee County Enrichment Center where she forged friendships and attending Journey Church of Sanford on Sunday mornings when she was able.  She also looked forward to annual family beach trips.  Sarah was a proud breast cancer survivor of over 20 years proving that with strength and perseverance, anything is possible. She also devoted much of her time to volunteering at Westfield Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, where she brought comfort and joy to those in need.

Sarah is survived by her loving daughter Juanita Brownlee;  former husband Johnny Hayes; grandchildren Jennifer (Eduardo), Ashley and Kourtney (Oh’Sha); great-grandchildren Liliana, Diego, Kammie, Mason and Ivey; great-great-grandchildren Alexandria and Jeffery; sister Ann Thomas and several special nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Journey Church of Sanford  formally First Wesleyan Church ( 2901 Beechtree Drive, Sanford, NC) with Pastor Josh Conklin officiating.

The family would like to give a special thanks to her cherished Liberty Hospice girls – Kristina, Michelle, Lorena and Emily.  Also, special chats with Chaplain Sam of Liberty Hospice. As well as special friend, Eliza. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sarah Elizabeth (Jackson) Brooks, please visit our floral store.