Mary Ann Rooks
Mary Ann Rooks, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family.
She was born on Oct. 1, 1953, in Chattanooga, to John W. Slaten and Mary Louise Henderson Slaten. Mary Ann was the middle child of five siblings and the only girl, affectionately called “Chic” by her father—a nickname she cherished her whole life.
A proud graduate of Red Bank High School in 1971, Mary Ann was not only known for her beauty, having earned the title of "class beauty," but also for her talent and spirit. She was a member of the RBHS Color Guard and was adored by her classmates. It was during those high school years that she met the love of her life, Larry Rooks. Their love story began in the tenth grade and blossomed into a lifelong partnership. The couple married in 1971 while Larry served in the U.S. Army, and they had two children, Holly and Brad.
Mary Ann’s dedication as a mother was unwavering. She never missed a dance rehearsal, baseball or football game, always putting her children’s interests and passions first. She was a constant source of support, encouragement, and love.
Mary Ann’s heart was as big as her spirit. She cultivated deep, lasting friendships, many of which she made through her beloved Red Bank Baptist Church. These friends became her extended family, and she cherished them for over 40 years. She was also known for her zest for life, her love of giving gifts, and her love of the beach, which led her to create the “Flipper Flopper Cancer Stompers” team in support of the Women’s Oncology Warriors (W.O.W.) Walk.
Even during her own battle with cancer, Mary Ann remained a beacon of joy, never failing to share her warmth and positivity. She often entertained fellow “Chemosabes” with cookies, brightening their spirits amid treatment. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her love for people and their stories was evident to everyone she met.
Mary Ann was a fighter, and though she faced many challenges in life, she never gave up. Now, she is reunited with her beloved parents, her brother Richard Slaten, her parents-in-love, Kenneth and Jo Rooks, and many cherished friends who were waiting for her in heaven.
She leaves behind her loving husband of 50 years, Larry Rooks; her children, Holly Grenvicz (Joe) and Brad Rooks (Jill); her five grandchildren, Lyla, Betsy, Clay, Hope, and Hayden; her brothers, Randy Slaten, Rob Slaten (Bettye), and Scott Slaten (Peggy); and a host of extended family, friends, and loved ones who were blessed to know her.
Mary Ann’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her—a testament to her boundless love, strength, and enduring spirit.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Women’s Oncology Warriors at WOWsupport.org in Mary Ann’s honor.
A visitation for Mary will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 5, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Chattanooga Funeral Home North Chapel, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343. A celebration of life will occur Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 1 p.m. A burial will occur at Hamilton Memorial Gardens, 5351 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.