Willis James Sidney Brooks

Mr. Willis “Willie” James Sidney Brooks Jr, was born August 23, 1944 in the city of Norfolk, Virginia to the late Willis J. Brooks Sr, and Sarah Kellie Brooks. Willie’s early education was in the city of Norfolk. His high school education was in New York. The passing of his mother brought him back to VA where he remained. To know him was to love him. He was a kindhearted, loving, and amazing brother, father and husband. The best person to get advice from because he never bit his tongue. Willie was a hard worker and dedicated leader. In the 60’s, Willie was President of the VA chapter of The Black Panther party called The Black Legion, heading a movement of equality that we are yet fighting today. Willie worked as a supervisory Pipefitter for the Department of Defense, Norfolk Naval shipyard for more than 22 years. Following his retirement in 1992, Willie was an active volunteer with Norfolk Public Schools in various capacities. During his leisure, he enjoyed fishing at various piers throughout Norfolk, watching his favorite television shows and movies, and spending time with loved ones especially during the holidays. During football season, Sunday, Monday, and Thursday nights he sported his Dallas Cowboys gear...game days were his favorite. Willie also enjoyed other sports such as watching the New York Yankees, tennis if one of the Williams’ sisters were playing, golf if Tiger Woods was in the tournament and competition Poker games. As a well-rounded individual, his taste for life was unmatched. On Sunday, November 29th, after a long battle with acute renal failure, our beloved Willie passed away. Just as he dealt with all experiences in life, he went through his sickness with strength, perseverance, and grace. Willie was 76 years of age. Willie was predeceased by his parents Willis and Sarah Brooks, his beloved wife Jacqueline L. Brooks, brother George L. Brooks, and two sisters Shirley Brooks Mumford and Diane Stovall Harris. He leaves behind to cherish precious memories two brothers-Johnnie L. Brooks (Norfolk, VA), Sammie D. Brooks (Va Beach, VA), four sons: Joseph S. Brooks, (South Carolina), Bobby J. Brooks (Norfolk, VA), Terrance J. Brooks (Norfolk, VA), Willie J. Brooks (Florida). Three daughters: Tracy E. Brooks (GA), Margaret T. Brooks (Norfolk, VA), and J. Kellie Brooks (Woodbridge, VA), granddaughter Miangel J. Brooks (Va Beach, VA), and a host of other grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.