Vivian Brooks Obituary

Waterford - Vivian Mary Ackerman Brooks 81, of Waterford passed away Jan. 30, 2026; the same way she lived her life, full of beauty and grace, leaving a life richly lived and deeply shared. Born April 2, 1944, in Cheltenham, England to the late Charles and Patricia (Paish) Ackerman.

Vivian was raised in Essex, she graduated from Valley Regional High School in 1962. The previous winter, during a Valley Regional High School vs Waterford High School basketball game, she met Walter Washington Brooks Jr. They were married Sept. 22, 1962, and spent the next 63 years together. Two years later they welcomed the first of their three daughters, Melanie Anne; Beverly Patricia and Julie Paish. She was a wonderful and devoted mother teaching kindness, curiosity, grace and integrity.

She co-founded Brooks Ltd Piano Services with her husband Wally in 1980. Vivian was a piano technician, one of the first women, pioneering the industry. She was awarded the prestigious Golden Hammer award from the International Piano Technicians Guild, in recognition of her contributions and accomplishments within the industry.

Vivan had many interests. Her love of history led her to serve as the Assistant Town Historian for the town of Waterford. She was an author of countless manuscripts, and a published author of the book "A Masterpiece in Modesty" which is in the U.S. Library of Congress. Two other areas of extreme interest were her love of genealogy and a passion for gardening. She was a registered genealogist for more than 50 years. Vivian was also a Master Gardner,

following in her mom's footsteps. She made and cared for beautiful gardens for all to enjoy well into the future. Both of these passions reflect her appreciation for roots, growth, and legacy.

An avid golfer, Vivian was a long-time member of the New London Country Club, and the Mayaka River Golf Club, Fla. Vivian was blessed with many lifelong friends who have stayed close all these years including her beloved "Bookies" who shared her love of reading.

Vivian and Wally worked hard and taught their children and grandchildren that hard work does pay off. They retired and became snowbirds, splitting their time pursing passions and creating deep friendships.

Vivian is survived by her three siblings, Jerry Ackerman, Lorry Gronback and Charlene Grenier. She leaves her beloved husband Wally; her three daughters, Melanie O'Donnell (Bernie Kavanagh), Beverly Clark (James Clark) and Julie Brooks; as well as her cherished grandchildren, Sage Leonard, Alden Brooks, Aidan and Owen O'Donnell and Ely and Hannah Clark.

Her children and grandchildren were a source of pure joy. She delighted in watching them blossom in their own lives, much like the flowers and plants she so lovingly tended.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, at Thomas Neilan Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street Niantic. A celebration of her amazing life will be held in the Spring, her favorite season. Details will follow.

In accordance with Vivian's wishes, donation may be made to Alzheimer's Disease Research c/o Cure Alzheimer's Fund, 34 Washington Street- Suite 230, Wellesley, MA 02481.

Lets help find a cure!

To leave a condolence message for Vivian's family, please visit her memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com.