Brooklyn Lynsey Rinehart was born February 24, 1979, in New Castle, Indiana. She moved to Texas to be with her mother, Sharon, where she ended up spending the majority of her adult life. Brooke moved back to Indiana to live with her sister, Angi (my mother), her brother-in-law at the time and her niece, myself. Brooke's time spent in Indiana was a wonderful one. She loved spending time with her family and friends, old and new. During her time in Indiana, Brooke grew a lot and discovered her passion for nursing, something she felt she was destined to do, following in the steps of nearly all of the women in her family. Eventually, though, Brooke returned to Texas. She firmly believed that Dallas was her home, where her heart was. Brooke's passion in life was animals, particularly cats. During her time in Dallas she fueled her passion and caring spirit in pursuing a career with animals. Brooke spent her last few years of life in a loving relationship with a man she cared for deeply. She lived in South Padre Island with her mother, Sharon, where she loved to lounge on the beach, eat lobster and befriend all of the local islanders. Thinking about Brooke, there are so many funny stories, happy memories and inside jokes that come to mind throughout all the time that I had known her, but I know her last few years of life were some of her happiest times. Those who love Brooke the most were blessed with opportunities to spend  more time with her than usual in her last two years of life. For that we are thankful.

It has been three years this week since Brooke has left us. Brooke had a kind heart, an immense love for her friends and family, a wonderful sense of humor and a beautiful soul. Not a day passes that she is not missed deeply.