Monica Mary (Shine) Brooks, 50, of Carmichael died Saturday, Sept. 26 at home after a valiant fight against cancer for seven months.

She was born and raised in Los Altos and graduated from Los Altos High School. She was an excellent tennis player and as a young woman, won the CCS Women’s Doubles Championship. She was also a graduate of CSU Chico.

She was a successful businesswoman. She and her husband owned Mark and Monica’s Family Pizza in Carmichael for 23 years.

Mrs. Brooks played an active role in the lives of her children, extended family and her many friends and employees. She gave much of herself to others and to the end of her life she wanted to make sure those around her were comfortable and happy.

While her children were in school, she frequently volunteered. Each year, she supported the community by collecting hundreds of coats for local children for the Coats for Kids winter coat drive. As an active member of the A.A. Fellowship, she knew the meaning of service and gave selflessly to others.

She appreciated the prayers and support she received through Oakdale Relay for Life last year.

She is survived by her husband of 24 years, Mark Brooks of Carmichael; children, Ryan Paul Brooks and Lauren Shine Brooks; parents, Bill Shine of Yountville and Joan Shine of Mountain View; brothers, Bill Shine of Mountain View, Damian Shine of Alpharetta, GA; sisters, Theresa Swilley of Oakdale, Joan Jones of Santa Clara; as well as many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sponsor, Meryl.

Friends and family are invited to a celebration of her life, which will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11 in the Sanctuary at Christ Community Church, 5025 Manzanita Ave., Carmichael.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in her memory to the Betty Ford Center, the American Cancer Society, the Hospice Foundation of America, or to Oakdale Relay for Life. A contribution box will also be available at the reception.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

Oct. 7, 2009