Carole M. Brooks, 69, of New Castle, peacefully went to be with her Lord the morning of July 26, 2016 after a three year battle with cancer. Carole was born on November 16, 1946 in Butler, Pa to Floyd E. and Helen Louise Hovis Middendorf. Her father preceded her in passing on December 19, 1994. Her mother survives in New Castle. Surviving at home is her husband of 48 years, Ralph Brooks, whom she married on June 22, 1968. After her 1964 graduation from New Castle High School, she attended Edinboro Teacher's College where she received her degree in education in 1967. Carole Middendorf Brooks was a disciple of Christ first and foremost in her time here on earth. Her love for God, her family, and her fellowman was her reason for being. One of Carole's greatest joys was her "Sonshine Class" at First Baptist Church where she was a member. She was a great role model in Christ not only to this class but to everyone she met. Carole worked 32 years in the New Castle Area School District. She was a remarkable Learning Support teacher – the kind that students hold in their hearts, for she was a gifted teacher who taught the ones that struggled. One of her greatest pleasures was enjoying times at the beach with her family – and cherished having her feet in the sand. Carole's friends and family all enjoyed her pies and sweet treats which she continued baking long after she herself could not eat sweets because of the cancer treatment. She sent everyone cards with decorated envelopes and with pictures for them inside. She loved to entertain and made simple occasions special. She especially enjoyed outdoor picnics and bonfires in her beautiful garden. Joy was the attitude Carole chose in her battle with cancer and she thanked God for her struggle, witnessing to all those that cared for her. She did this with a willing heart – a heart for God. She did not live for herself, but to serve her maker, for each day Carole began with Bible study and prayer. She was a great encourager to others with her sunny smile, inspirational words, and thoughtful little gifts. She was a member of the Lawrence County Garden Club, the Lawrence County Jaycees Auxiliary, College Club and the New Castle Retirees. In addition to her mother and husband, Carole is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Heather and Mike Keller of Reading, PA; her son and daughter-in-law, Adam and Brenda Brooks of New Castle, PA; one brother, David R. (Jennifer) Middendorf of New Castle; and three grandchildren, Brayden, Carter, and Kendall. Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm on Friday at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Rd. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. John Yergan officiating. Burial will take place in Graceland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to The Sonshine Class at First Baptist Church, 984 W. Maitland Lane, New Castle, PA 16105. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.cunninghamfh.com.