VALLEY GRANDE — The city of Valley Grande suffered a great loss Monday with the death of beloved Valley Grande city councilmember and former educator, Marie Middlebrooks, early Monday morning due to complications after a recent heart surgery.

Middlebrooks, who had heart valve replacement surgery Wednesday, died Monday after her health took a turn for the worse, leaving behind a grieving family and friends who are still stunned and hurt by the news.

Valley Grande Mayor Tom Lee said the loss came as a shock.

“It’s irreparable,” Lee said. “She was a super special woman who really stepped up in the time of need for the city. It’s a huge loss to the people of Valley Grande and we’re still in shock.”

Middlebrooks, also a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Selma, threw herself into helping whomever she could. Fellow church member Patty Sexton said Middlebrooks will be missed.

“She was a Sunday school teacher, a mission worker,” Sexton said. “I’m truly saddened. Heaven is now a more glorious place; a new crown has been added. She was just an outstanding person.”

First Baptist’s pastor Dr. Jerry Light spent time with the family Monday and recalled the major impact Middlebrooks made in the community.

“She was beloved by everyone and she had the quintessential teacher’s personality,” Light said. “She was there for so many people in the community — always giving, always doing and always loving. She truly loved people and I respected her so much. It’s still difficult.”

The family has yet to announce funeral arrangements for Middlebrooks, who leaves behind her husband, Gene.