Mrs. Brenda Kay Rooks

Brenda “Kay” Rooks, age 79, passed away Monday, May 11, 2026. Her journey began in Nash County on January 10, 1947, the second daughter born to Luther David Pridgen and Eva Hall Pridgen.

In 1966, Kay married the love of her life, Jimmie and their bond was evident to everyone around them. They were inseparable, often found riding Jimmie’s motorcycle or going on fishing trips, always making the most of their time together. After many joyful years of marriage, they were blessed with their daughter, Kim. The joy of being a wife and mother was unsurpassed, and she loved every moment spent with her family.

In addition to her parents, Kay was preceded in death by her husband of forty-three years, Jimmie C. Rooks and sisters, Phillis Barnes and Peggy Ann Pridgen.

She leaves a lifetime of treasured memories for her daughter, Kim Edwards and husband, Rod of Chicago, Illinois; sister, Sandra Pridgen of Spring Hope; as well as many special nieces and nephews and other extended relatives.

Kay was well known in the community as the owner and operator of Brenda’s Hair Fashions, a hair salon she established in her backyard in 1978, where she dedicated fifty years to her career. Her salon was more than just a place for haircuts; it served as a sanctuary for many clients who needed a listening ear, advice or a friend.

In her leisure time away from the salon, Kay found joy in listening to 50’s music including hits from Elvis, The Temptations and Ray Charles. She also enjoyed unwinding by watching classic movies like Sabrina and Doris Day and television shows including Bob Ross, Andy Griffith and Perry Mason. Finally, Kay loved her quiet evenings sitting in the backyard, watching the hummingbirds with Jimmie.

A beloved wife, mother, aunt, hairdresser and friend to many, Kay’s light continues to shine in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at the Chapel of Memories Mausoleum at Rocky Mount Memorial Park, 4454 Dortches Blvd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 10:00am and other times at the home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home, PO Box 249, Middlesex, NC 27557 or to the charity closest to your heart.