Merita Joyce Perez Brooks

Merita Joyce Perez Brooks, affectionately known as “Nanny,” passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on May 6, 2026, and was welcomed into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

She was born on February 13, 1933, in Pascagoula, Mississippi. A devoted and active member of Canaan Assembly of God, Joyce lived a life grounded in faith, love, and service to others. Throughout her life, she wore many hats with grace and dedication. She lovingly operated an in-home daycare for ten years, worked at Cinderella Woolen Mill, and later became the proud owner of Nanny’s Country Crafts. A talented seamstress, she found joy in creating and sharing her gifts with those around her. Joyce had a deep love for gardening, cooking, baking, and working in her yard. She also found special meaning in arranging flowers for loved ones at the cemetery, a reflection of her thoughtful and caring nature. More than anything else, she cherished her family. She was a constant source of love, strength, and support, always there when she was needed, offering comfort, wisdom, and unwavering care.

She shared sixty-nine beautiful years of marriage with the love of her life, Rudolph Brooks, until his passing in 2019. Their enduring love stands as a testament to her devotion and commitment. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rudolph Brooks; her father, Louis Mandel Perez; her mother, Ethel Marie Perez; her sister, Delores Woodridge; her brothers, Reverend Bobby Louis Perez, Travis Vincent Perez, and Douglas Mandel Perez; and her son-in-law, Randy Barfield.

Joyce is survived by her loving children: Judy Barfield, Mike (Liz) Brooks, Barry (LeaAnn) Brooks, and Tammy (Lavon) James. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jaime McGowan, Randa (Scott) Ryder, Brad Brooks, TJ (Britney) Brooks, Jessica Easton, Dallas (Kellie) Brooks, Maghan (Brad) Smith, and Logan (Nick) Smith; fifteen great-grandchildren;  
Analeice Barfield, Carson Ryder, Hayze McGowan, Gabriel Easton, Nolan Brooks,  Addison Brooks, Madison Brooks, McKenna Brooks, Macey Kate Brooks, Brynlea Brooks, Wyatt Brooks, Noah Smith, Evie Smith, Niko Smith, Stella Smith, and a host of nieces and nephews who will continue to honor her memory. Joyce will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her generous heart, and the deep love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the family she held so dear.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses of Hospice of Light for the compassionate and tender care they provided to their mother during this time and to her pastor Rev. Rodney Coleman for his enduring faithfulness, steadfastness in truth and unwavering compassion throughout the years. 

Pallbearers will be Scott Ryder, Brad Brooks, TJ Brooks, Dallas Brooks, Gabriel Easton, and Carson Ryder. Honorary Pallbearers will be Hayze McGowan, Nolan Brooks, Wyatt Brooks, Niko Smith, and Noah Smith. Visitation will take place on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., at Canaan Assembly of God in Moss Point, Mississippi. The funeral service will follow at1:00 p.m. and interment will conclude at Serene Memorial Gardens.

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