Niveria Maria Brooks

"Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." On the evening of Saturday, July 20, Niveria was summoned from this life by her Maker, after a long and difficult battle with dementia. She was 84. Nivy, as she was affectionately known, immigrated to the U.S. from Terceira, Azores as a young girl of nine years. Assimilation was difficult, as she attempted to navigate a foreign land, an unfamiliar culture, and a new language. Until the end, however, she remained proud of her Portuguese roots. Her family settled in Los Banos, where she grew up and attended local schools. After high school, she met and married Arnold Affonso. Together they had one son, Loren, who was her pride and joy. She later married Jerry Brooks, to whom she was married until his untimely death in 2000. Niveria worked for ten years as a nurse aide at the Los Banos Convalescent Hospital. She later worked for several years as a clerk at the Turlock Health Food Store. Some of the simple joys in her life included: vacationing at the coast, taking a drive in her yellow Corvette, a good cup of coffee, and rooting for the underdog. She loved animals, especially cats and welcome...[more]

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any of them into her home over the years. In animals she seemed to find a kind of unconditional acceptance that brought her comfort. She also had a love of music, especially music that had a good dance beat. Her dance moves were unmatched and her rhythm unparalleled. Of great importance to her was family, and she made sure never to miss a family gathering. Lastly, she was a woman of faith. Even through her life's many struggles, she leaned on her Catholic faith. She never lost her trust and hope in her Lord and Savior. Niveria was preceded in death by her son, Loren Affonso, a profound loss for her. Left to grieve her loss are her grandchildren, Dasan and Tessa Affonso, and her daughter-in-law, Stacie Affonso. She also leaves behind her siblings: Terry (Sandra) Nunes, Mary (Dale) Young, and Olga (Allen) Kiehl. Also surviving her are many special nieces, nephews, and godchildren, all of whom she held dear in her heart, as well as her beloved long-time caregiver, Genevieve. To honor her memory, please feel free to adopt a pet in need of a safe home. Although we will miss her spunk and lively sense of humor, we take comfort in knowing Nivy is now released from all the earthly suffering she endured. Jesus said to His disciples. "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me."