Carmella was born in Dallas, Texas to Mary Belle Carson Shields and Patrick Thomas Shields. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and went to work for Solomon Brothers as a young woman. Carmella met her husband of 56 years, Joe Brockette, while attending First Presbyterian Church of Dallas, where she was an Elder, Sunday school teacher, youth leader, and Bible study moderator. A deeply devoted wife and mother, Carmella's greatest passion was her love for her family, but she had many other passions as well. She loved to paint… painting and decorating fine china as well as water color painting. She loved to sing…singing in the church choir with her dearest friends for many years. She loved to entertain… always welcoming guests into her home for any occasion. She loved to nurture… reaching out to those who needed love and support. She loved to cook…creating marvelous meals and desserts with ease. She loved to serve…working diligently on church committees, school parent groups, and other volunteer opportunities. She loved to share God's word…always knowing who could use a caring mentor or just some inspiration from a Bible verse. She was genuine, loving, kind and selfless. Carmella is survived by her husband Joe, son Patrick and his wife Michele, and son Jefferey and his wife Kristin. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Allison, Ryan, Carson, William and Kathryn Brockette, and by her brother Patrick Shields and her niece Ellyn Morgan, husband Ralph and daughters Sarah and Angela Morgan, and her nephew Terry Shields and wife Benjin.

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, January 20 at 1:30 pm in the chapel of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to First Presbyterian Church of Dallas Foundation or Presbyterian Village North Foundation.

Arrangements are under the direction of: Aria Cremation Service & Funeral Home 10116 E. Northwest Highway Dallas, Texas 75238 214-340-8008