Carol Alkek

Carol Ruth Brooksaler Alkek December 23, 1941 – February 19, 2026 Carol Brooksaler Alkek passed away on February 19, 2026. She was a remarkable woman, leaving behind a legacy of love, empathy, friendship, courage, and spirited connection. Born on December 23, 1941, at Florence Nightingale Hospital in Dallas, Carol grew up in Highland Park, with parents Fred and Irmgard Brooksaler and younger sister Doris, just one block from the high school — so close that her family could follow the football games by opening a window to hear the PA announcer. Her parents were German immigrants who narrowly escaped Nazi persecution, and her grandmother came to live with them directly after surviving a concentration camp. These early family experiences deeply shaped Carol’s resilience, sensitivity, and lifelong commitment to justice and inclusion. A proud graduate of Highland Park High School, Carol continued her education at the University of Texas, earning a degree in Spanish, German, and education. While still in college, she became involved in civil rights activism, participating in “stand-ins” to help integrate the Varsity Movie Theater — an early reflection of a trait that would define her: she could not sit still in the face of injustice, nor stay quiet in a society that needed healing. Throughout her life, she lent her energy to every good cause she encountered. She began her professional career as a teacher before building a distinguished 28-year career with the Medicare division of Blue Cross Blue Shield. During her tenure, she managed the Training, Fair Hearings, and Special Projects departments. She was admired for her leadership and for the lasting relationships she formed with colleagues. Carol’s Jewish faith was central to her identity and to the way she lived. A devoted member of Temple Emanu-El in Dallas, she sang in the Temple choir for 52 years, traveling with the choir to several countries. She also served on the Caring Congregation and Just Congregation teams and gave generously of her time and energy. Beyond the synagogue, she served on the Interfaith Council of the Thanksgiving Square Foundation and was a vice president and board member of the National Council of Jewish Women. Her life reflected an unwavering belief in empathy — remembering the stranger, caring for the vulnerable, and acting with kindness. She truly never met a stranger, possessing a profound love of human connection. Carol formed friendships everywhere she went — with classmates, neighbors, coworkers, and friends of her children who became her own. She was adventurous and traveled extensively, making multiple trips to India, where she developed deep and lasting bonds. There, she was affectionately given the name “KanchanBen,” meaning “Golden” or “Sunshine,” a fitting tribute to her warmth and outgoing nature. Carol made people laugh and think and inspired them through the way she showed up for others. She was cultured, curious, and joyfully engaged with life — a wonderful cook, vocalist, enthusiastic mahjong player and teacher, and a proud member of The Tuesday Morning Book Club That Meets On Wednesday Night. She delighted in conversation, music, learning, and lively debate. Above all, Carol was a giver. She gave her time, her attention, her encouragement, her strong opinions, and her steadfast love. She instilled in her children and students the importance of respect for others and inclusion. Family was her greatest joy. Carol is survived by her son, Brooks Alkek of Austin; her daughter, Kellilyn Dropkin and her husband, Andrew, of Dallas; her grandsons, Mason Dropkin (fiancé Addie) of Dallas and Dylan Dropkin of Austin; and her sister, Doris Cowl of Baltimore. She adored her children and absolutely cherished her grandsons, attending their games, celebrating their milestones, and loving them without measure. A Memorial Service was held at Temple Emanu-El in Dallas, with Rabbi David Stern presiding. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Rabbi David Stern’s Discretionary Fund at Temple Emanu-El or in honor of Carol to the Dr. Fred S. Brooksaler Professorship in Pediatrics endowment at UT Southwestern Medical School. Carol’s memory is — and will always be — a blessing.

Carol Alkek

December 23, 1941 - February 19, 2026