Joseph Lewis Brooks

Joseph Lewis Brooks (affectionately known as “Joe”) was born in Los Angeles, California to Gabe Brooks and Clora Pittman Brooks. Joe was fond of saying that his birthdate was “2-3-4-5.”

Joe accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mr. Rock Baptist Church in Compton, California. Joe was educated in the Compton Unified School District and later attended Riverside Community College and Taft College.

In his professional life, Joe was an exemplary salesman, with a particular fondness for selling men’s suits, a testament to his impeccable style. Charismatic and sociable, he was a well-known figure in his community; always engaging with neighbors and friends.

Joe was passionate about music, especially jazz. Joe’s playlists often featured icons like Smokey Robinson and Ella Fitzgerald. He used to get his shoes shined to the tune of “Sidewinder” by trumpeter Lee Morgan playing on the jukebox. He even took up guitar lessons to deepen his appreciation for music.

Joe fell in love and married Cathy Brooks in 1969 and welcomed the joy of fatherhood with his son Carey from the marriage. He later expanded his family with the addition of his daughter, Marlene, and later his son Joseph. Joe cherished his children deeply. In later years, Joe found companionship and love with Lena, whom he married and remained devoted to her until her passing in 2015.

After Lena passed away, Joe sold the home they had bought in Taft, California and spent his years enveloped in the warmth of family gatherings and visits with siblings and children.

On August 2, 2023 at the age of 78, Joe was called home by the Lord. Joe is survived by his children, Carey Brooks, Marlene McFadden and Joseph Brooks, his siblings Gabe Brooks, Melvin Brooks, and Catherine Ireland, and a host of cousins, other loved ones and friends. He was the cherished grandfather to 10 and great-grandfather to six, all of whom he was fortunate to meet. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Gabe Brooks Sr. and Clora Brooks, his wife Lena, and siblings Barbara Ireland, Jesse (Butch) Brooks, Donald Brooks, and Vance Brooks.