Rosalind Poll Brooker, 88

NAPLES, FLA. – Judge Rosalind Poll Brooker died on Oct. 16 in Naples, where she had lived for 28 years after her retirement. 

A woman of principle, spirit, intelligence, wisdom, love and generosity, Brooker accomplished a great deal of private and public good in her long life.  After marriage to Samuel S. Brooker and graduation from the Boston University School of Law in 1952, she returned to New Bedford to begin her practice of law. While developing that practice, she became an integral part of New Bedford’s civic life. As an attorney, she volunteered her skills and time to numerous nonprofit organizations. These experiences led her to politics;  she was the first woman to be elected to the New Bedford City Council. She later became its first woman president and city solicitor. She also became deeply involved in Republican Party politics and was a confidante or counsel to state and national politicians and particularly close to U.S. Sen. Ed Brooke. She was appointed an administrative law judge by Gov. Francis Sargent and reappointed by Gov. Michael Dukakis.

Judge Brooker’s focus, drive, toughness, goodwill and tolerance was the product of a life that required overturning obstacles. She overcame every impediment placed in her path – physical or gender-based – through her command of language, strategic reasoning, grace and the love of her family and friends.  Her simple axiom “You fall down, you get up, you achieve” earned her unceasing respect and admiration.

Her husband predeceased her.  She is survived by two daughters, a son, six grandchildren, three great-grandsons and two sisters.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Hadassah, www.hadassah.org.