Crystal Earnestine Brookins

May 22, 1963 - July 1, 2020

When Crystal Earnestine Brookins walked into a room, her kind, happy spirit was as evident as her sense of style. There was always some dressy element even when she was casually hanging out for the day. She loved to shop and buy things that would bring her joy – and more often than not – presents that Crystal believed would bring joy to others. The biggest gift she shared with everyone was herself.

Crystal looked out for everyone – family, friends and coworkers. She donated her unused sick leave to Commerce Department coworkers in need. She would reach out to family members on all important milestones and as an added bonus, send birthday, anniversary and even Christmas gifts months in advance – just because she wanted them to know something special awaited them. She treasured technology and would gladly help others figure them out. She used it to keep family close. On Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, Crystal entered into eternal rest as the love of her life Sam Stafford held her hand and played music as her sisters shared her final moments with the help of technology that allowed them to be close to her from hundreds of miles away.

Crystal was born on an unseasonably cold, snowy day on May 22, 1963 in Detroit to Matt and Patricia Brookins– a fact her parents would mention with a smile whenever that day rolled around. As the family grew over the years, Crystal led the way for her two younger sisters: Sharon and Hallie. She would introduce them to the music, dance shows and take the lead when their dad would have them work on some project to solder and build.

As a young adult, she moved to Fairfax, Virginia where she lived for a time with her aunt and uncle and their young children, while working at Dillard’s department store and finishing her degree in Information Technology. The degree would lead to a career with the U.S. Department of Commerce at the National Technical Information Service. It also led to meeting her long-term partner Sam. Crystal and Sam loved being together. When they were apart due to family visits or trips, they could talk on the phone for hours.

In 2017, a diagnosis of end stage kidney failure changed Crystal’s life but did not change the way she chose to live it. It was always with kindness, love, joy and a smile – it is Crystal’s legacy. On Wednesday, July 1, 2020 she died due to complications of the disease. She will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew her.

Crystal is survived by her sisters, Sharon Jones and Hallie (Joseph) Robinson; two nieces; four nephews; aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws. She was preceded in death by her parents, Matt and Patricia Brookins.

An in-person memorial service in Michigan will be planned at a future time. For now, we celebrate Crystal’s life in a video that can be viewed at: https://youtu.be/SXXaar-JHWo .

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I cannot believe she is gone. I have known Crystal Brookins since Hally Elementary thru Mumford High School. She was always beautiful, sweet, smart l, a good friend, very loving and caring. She had a great sense of fashion and loved jewelry. If we went to the movies or museum she was always dressed very elegantly. She dressed with style at Mumford High as well. I saw Crystal in overall jeans one time and she made it look like a million bucks. She wore scarves before I saw Oprah in scarves. She treated me like a sister. She had so much compassion. She never raised her voice, quarrel or gossip. She was a true friend and I loved her for being a dear friend who never judged me but only showed me kindness. I will truly miss her smile, laughter and spirit. Thank you Crystal for your beautiful friendship. You are a jewel, one of a kind, a true friend, a best friend.

My Condolences to Sam and family. What a beautiful obituary and video tribute. The obituary was spot-on. She still is all that was written, a kind, loving, generous spirit. Every year she gave me a Christmas gift and she always said, " I thought you would love this," and I always did. I met her a NTIS; what a pleasant person and always willing to help with my desktop computer. Sometimes she would have to go under my desk to look at the wire connections and I would say to her, "Crystal you can't get under my desk with that dress on." Her job wouldn't stop her fashion sense. My heart is opening as think of her...Lovely Woman.

Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ, My condolences to the family and I pray God's peace be upon each and everyone of you. I too worked with Crystal at N.T.I.S. and I know that she would do anything for you, that was the type of person she was. I will never forget the time that she gave me a Christmas gift and I told her she didn't have to do that and replied that it was her pleasure to do so. Crystal was one of the most nicest people I know, she will truly be missed but also remembered forever. God bless the family and may peace be upon you in this time of sorrow. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can not heal.

I worked with Crystal while at NTIS and she was always a joy to be around. My condolences to you, her family, while you grieve her. Sending love and prayers.

I had the opportunity to meet Crystal at N.T.I.S where we worked as co-workers and it was my pleasure that I got the chance to meet her. When you walked into a room she would light it up with her smile and we would talk and laugh, and she was so easy to talk too and a joy to be around.! She was definitely beautiful inside and out. I’m sure with that smile she is brightening up heavens ground. Keep smiling Crystal because heaven certainly gained a beautiful Angel. ????‍♀️???....Fly high Crystal. RIP Marsha Hawkins

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Crystal is one the sweeties souls I have had the pleasure of knowing. I was a co-worker @ National Technical Information Service and she will truly be miss. Rest in Peace my friend. Deborah nad Allen, Adriana Williams

First and foremost I would like to send my condolences to the family. I pray that God will wrap his arms around each and everyone of you for peace and comfort. I worked with Crystal at National Technical Information Service (NTIS), and to know her was to love her. I have never in life met such a beautiful, caring soul that would go the extra mile to help anyone out. I will forever treasure the memories that we had at NTIS. Her loyalty to her job, family and friends is something that will never be forgotten. Fly high my friend, you've earned your wings gracefully!

In memory of , John Delle-Monache lit a candle

nd your family is that she be remembered for the joy she brought to you and those who met her. Pray you can build on that for her legacy rather than what you're missing in her daily physical absence. God be with you and your family.

Prayers and Condolences to my family. I will see my cousin on the other side oneday.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.