Joan Acosta Brooks, 85, of Valdosta, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. She was born on September 19, 1940, in Jacksonville, Florida, to the late Owen Curtis "Buck" Acosta and Sue Kelly Ramey. The family later moved to Ohio, where she graduated from Mansfield High School in 1957.

Following graduation, Joan moved to Valdosta to live with her aunt and uncle, along with her twin sister, Joyce. Soon after arriving, she met David Brooks by chance at the Base Exchange at Moody Air Force Base. They began dating and were married at Clyattville Methodist Church on May 11, 1960. They quickly started their family, and Joan devoted herself to being a loving wife and mother for many years.

As her children grew older, Joan worked at Owens-Illinois Bag Plant, Valdosta Furniture & Mattress alongside her husband, in real estate, and later in Plant Operations at Valdosta State University. She enjoyed bowling and was active in a local bowling league. She was also a dedicated member of the Elks Lodge, where she served as President of the Elks Auxiliary. Joan will be remembered by her family and friends for her wonderful sense of humor and the joy she brought to those around her.

Mrs. Brooks is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Alisa and Bob Ganzak of Valdosta; her son, David Brooks, Jr. of Valdosta; her daughters and sons-in-law, Shannon and Patrick Best of Valdosta and Kelly and Matt Johnson of Valdosta; her grandchildren, Heather Williams, Brooke King, David Williams, Jr., Megan Smith, Blake Williams, Rachel Williams, Jordan Weaver, Logan Law, Landon Best, Jayden Best, Jensen Best, Brooks Best, and Olivia Brooks; and twenty-one great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David Brooks, Sr.; her daughter, Tanya Renee Dodson; and her twin sister, Joyce Goddard.

A funeral service for Mrs. Brooks will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, in the chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home with the Rev. Mac Weaver officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. prior to the service.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or Ronald McDonald House Charities. Condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home