Claude Alice Brooks, age 94, passed away Saturday August 7, 2021, at Legacy at Town Creek in Palestine, Texas.

She was born on March 1, 1927, in Cannes, France to Marcel R. Petitjean and Marie Louise Rose Petitjean.

Claude met her husband James during World War II and came to the US as a war bride. She obtained US citizenship and resided in Palestine. She never forgot her French upbringing and visited her home many times. She never lost her French accent, which started many a conversation when meeting new people. She had many stories she could tell of living during World War II as a teenager. She loved history.

She retired from Palestine Independent School District as a Librarian.

She was preceded in death by her parents. Left to cherish her memory are her son, Patrick James Brooks, wife Carol, daughter Marie Griffith – husband Michael. Grandchildren – Whitney Inge, husband Aaron, Samantha Brooks, Mike Griffith Jr. – wife Lori, James C. Griffith – wife Laura, Brian Brooks. Great-Grandchildren include Kayleigh Emerson, Mandy Hodge – husband Aaron, Cole Griffith, wife Bailey, Conner Griffith, Justin Griffith, and Luke Griffith. Great Great-Grandchildren include Case and Walker and Zoie Hodge and Natalie Inge.

She is also survived by a sister – Marie-Rose and husband Jacques Chassaing, niece Sophie and husband Jef Bouquet, nephew Fabian Chassaing and wife Caroline, great niece Lucie and great nephew Clement Chassaing of France.

Claude’s wishes were to be cremated and they were honored by Boren-Conner Funeral Home in Bullard, Texas.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date.