Donald Ardis Brooks

On Tuesday, January 10, 2023, Donald Ardis Brooks Esq., endearing Husband, devoted Father, loving Brother, adoring Uncle, cherished Nephew, caring Cousin, and supportive friend passed away at age 62. Donny was married to his wife Connie for 34 years and together they raised three beautiful children. He had strong faith in God and studied the bible diligently. His life embodied faith, family, friends, and fun.

Donny was a successful scholar athlete that after graduating Dominguez High School took him across the country to Midwest College with a football scholarship. He later returned to California and graduated with a bachelor’s degree at Long Beach State University. Donny spent years imparting knowledge and mentorship to the students at Willowbrook Middle School in Compton, CA where his love of education was fostered. His nights and weekends were devoted to going back to school to earn his Juris Doctor from Western State University College of Law. Continually preserving and committed to excellence, he eventually opened The Law Offices of Donald A. Brooks, Esq.

Following in his parents’ footsteps, he became a dedicated member of The Most worshipful King David Grand Lodge for many years, where he served various roles and earned his 33°. In 2005, the loss of his son changed his outlook and perspective on life. He was greatly impacted and although he never lost his passion and dedication, he took a step back from many of his obligations.

Donny was known for his smile and his uplifting words of encouragement to all. We can still hear him say, “It’s gone be alright”, a phrase he would echo in someone’s time of need. A gentle hug was offered if he noticed a loved one in despair. No matter the day or time if our beloved Donny knew someone was in need, he would avail himself to get someone over that mountain. Regardless the size of the mountain (unless it was Xela of course, who held a soft spot in his heart) he would lace up his boots and get marching.

If you knew Donny, you know you can see him coming from miles away, not because you recognized his face but because of his one-of-a kind walk and loc sunglasses that he would have sitting on his forehead. As he got closer you would notice the suspenders that he accessorized with no matter what outfit he was wearing. Donny was truly a unique guy that was intelligent and wise beyond his years. He could literally dance a hole in a rug with his nonstop dancing. His children, and nieces and nephews looked forward to weekly bible studies which included his bible trivia and coveted prize-winning money to whomever could recite the verse of his choosing for that day. He relished family visits and instilling the importance of having faith and a relationship with God early in his loved one’s lives.

With all of Donny’s accolades as an athlete, an educator, and an attorney his most important and proudest moments were as a grandfather. You would see him telling Xander to keep his head up while he was dribbling and not to double dribble. You could hear him continuing his role as life-long educator to go over school lessons with all his grandkids. He would find happiness dancing with his granddaughters while they scream the big payback. This was all fine and dandy until he started singing. It was a combination of all the greats: Sam Cooke, Smokey Robinson, and James Brown. What a trio it was. He found laughter in trying out his grandson’s hover board which didn’t always end well. These are the moments his devoted wife, Connie, and we all remember. He will be greatly missed but all his cherished memories shall continue to live on in our stories and in our hearts.

He was preceded in death by his parents Gabe and Clora Brooks, brothers Jesse (Butch), and Vance, Sister Barbara, and son Dominick.

He is survived by his wife Connie; children, Joey (Niki), Doneé (Alex); Grandchildren, Jaelyn, Xander, Aubrielle, Joey, Aris, Xéla; brothers Joe, Gabe, Ronnie, Andrew, Arthur (Curly); sisters, Cathy Ireland ,Penny Brooks, Cathy Brooks and a host of nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a celebration of life homegoing service that will be held at Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel (27501 S. Western Ave, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275) on February 9th, 2023 at 11:30am. Internment will immediately follow.

Donations can be sent to the family or made here https://gofund.me/723f3f08 .

Flower donations can be sent to Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel (ATTENTION: DONALD BROOKS) (27501 S. Western Ave, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275).