Andrea L. Brookins Receives Funeral Director of the Year Runner-Up

Andrea L. Brookins (pictured), chief executive officer and owner of Brookins Funeral Home, was a runner up for Funeral Director of the Year 2018. The honor recognizes the valuable work she is doing as one of the few African-American women in the funeral service industry today.
Andrea L. Brookins (pictured), chief executive officer and owner of Brookins Funeral Home, was a runner up for Funeral Director of the Year 2018. The honor recognizes the valuable work she is doing as one of the few African-American women in the funeral service industry today.

Andrea L. Brookins Receives Funeral Director of the Year Runner-Up

Andrea L. Brookins, chief executive officer and owner of Brookins Funeral Home, was a runner-up for Funeral Director of the Year 2018. Brookins Funeral Home has been part of Chicago’s 21st Ward community for over 40 years. The honor recognizes the valuable work she is doing as one of the few African-American women in the funeral service industry today.

American Funeral Director’s (AFD) Funeral Director of the Year award recognizes funeral directors who deliver exceptional services, provide community support and who are role models in the industry.

The AFD Funeral Director of the Year runner up award was presented in New Orleans, Louisiana. Brookins accepted the award on behalf of her family and community where in 2018, she presented over $14,000 in scholarships and grants to youth and youth focused organizations, coordinated an annual community health fair, hosted the annual Brookins summer music concert series and neighborhood beautification awards.

She is a strong advocate for residents in the city’s 21st Ward where she volunteers and supports many causes that promote community well-being.

Brookins, along with her family, most notably her father retired State Senator

Howard B. Brookins, Sr., and brother Howard B. Brookins Jr., current Chicago 21st Ward Alderman, have been integral in bringing positive change to the neighborhood for nearly 50 years.

“I’m honored to receive this award that shows the positive contributions we all are making to improve the lives of our neighbors and friends. Working together with community businesses, organizations and neighbors, we’re showing that when people pull together, we all move forward,” Brookins said.

This year, Brookins plans to continue her work and expand upon the community service she has already been doing.

“We’re excited to kick off another year of providing scholarships, hosting our annual health fair and music series, and beautification awards. Our goal is to make sure our community shows its strength and receives the services it deserves. There are so many people who care about our youth, our seniors and just as important, our economic growth and stability. I’m thankful and excited that my family can be part of making a difference,” she said.

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