GARY SIMON BROOKS

GARY SIMON BROOKS obituary

GARY SIMON BROOKS

GARY BROOKS Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Apr. 30 to May 1, 2012.
BROOKS GARY SIMON, 71, died peacefully and surrounded by family on Friday, April 27, 2012. For 8 years, he fought cancer, extending his "bonus years" beyond any doctors expectation. But they did not know Gary. He was born on August 12, 1940, to Della and Howard Brooks, and raised on the mean streets of Flushing, NY, where he was joined at the hip with his younger brother, Bobby. Together they managed to terrorize not one, but two neighborhoods, when he moved to Miami Beach at age 10. Gary was a scholar and an athlete, as proud of being voted "Most Likely to Succeed" at Miami Beach High School ('58) and attending Harvard Law School ('65), as being the star of the Pi Lam flag football team at the University of Florida ('62). He was a razor sharp litigator who was feared by opposing counsel and loved by colleagues and juries (for Gary, voir dire was just another word for showtime); he was a cartoonist and writer, a theologian and philosopher, a humorist and entertainer, an ordained minister who married more people than most priests, a songwriter and guitarist, a film director and screenwriter, a playwright and poet, a veteran and bronze star recipient, a mentor and friend, a beloved husband, brother, father and grandfather, the likes of which we will never see again. They just do not make them like Gary anymore. Gary is survived by his wife Frances Esposito; two sons (that we know of) Zach and Jake Brooks; stepdaughter Maureen Esposito; two stepsons Michael and David Esposito; their significant others, Sarah, Miguel, Lizzy, Lidia and Lupe; four grandchildren, Harry, Annabelle, Matthew and Lucy; and his dog Sammy (Schmuel). Also surviving him are his nephew Josh Brooks and niece Jill Brooks and half- sister Laura. We hope Gary has been reunited in death with Della, Howard, Bobby, his brother David, Shep, granddaughter Scarlett, and his dogs Sasha, Mugsy, Max and Sadie. A memorial service will be held at noon on Tuesday, May 1, at the Levitt-Weinstein Memorial Chapel, 18840 W. Dixie Hwy., North Miami Beach, 33180. If you have any questions, please call (305) 932-2700. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Humane Society or ASPCA. View this Guest Book at www. MiamiHerald.com/obituaries.

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April 8, 2025

Wen Mew posted to the memorial.

April 24, 2023

Stephanie Logan Kennedy posted to the memorial.

April 24, 2023

Maureen Cooper posted to the memorial.

46 Entries

Wen Mew

April 8, 2025

Gary would have enjoyed watching his Gators win the NCAA! He and I were in JAG together! He was a kind and generous person who
let me live in his home after we were discharged?

Stephanie Logan Kennedy

April 24, 2023

I remember Gary fondly from childhood. He was always a sweetheart.

Maureen Cooper

April 24, 2023

Just hearing your name brings a smile. I know you are bringing joy to those in heaven with you my sweet kind friend.

Catherine Chesnard

October 4, 2022

We offer our condolences.
Terence & Catherine Chesnard

Mr. & Mrs. Terence Chesnard

February 27, 2021

Our Condolences To The Entire Family. I am sure Gary will be missed by his Love and Support that he gave to others.

Roberta Rhoads

December 29, 2016

I met Gary when he returned from Vietnam. Gary and my husband Jim Rhoads served together in the Jag Corp. They had a great friendship Jim died last year so they may be discussing cases again. So sorry for your loss. He was a great guy.

Greta Stridfeldt-Hopkins

December 6, 2012

Frannie, Ran into June Ubersox this week and she told me of Gary's passing...it hit me like a ton of bricks. I'm so sorry for your loss...He was an important piece of my past, his laughter, humor, guidance, introducing me to Brooke's dad, marrying us...so many wonderful memories will live on. He adored you and I have no doubt your love for him gave him so much peace and happiness over the years.

Sheila Kinser

May 9, 2012

Brooks & Esposito families, sorry to hear of Gary's passing. I knew Gary for about 10 years
cutting his hair. He shared his music, humor, dance,and wisdom. He will be missed. Sheila

Stephanie LOGAN Kennedy

May 7, 2012

Dear Brooks/Esposito Family,

I have known Gary since we were children in grammar school through high school, and will miss seeing his happy smiling face at our high school reunions My deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends.

Sincerely,
Stephanie LOGAN Kennedy

Mike Lappin

May 4, 2012

Dear Brooks family:


My deepest sympathies on Gary's passing.Proud to say he was my friend back in Beach Hi and U OF F.I was a classmate of brother Bobby and close friend Shep.

I remember Gary as always the brightest guy in the room...affable,outgoing and always a step ahead.

My best wishes to you all...look forward to giving you hugs in person some day.

Mike Lappin

May 3, 2012

Gary,
I will always remember you as a gifted and inspiring leader at MBHS and an adult who touched everyone's lives. I feel so fortunate we had some quality conversation earlier this year.
My heartfelt condoences to all your dear ones.
I see your absent face.

Joan Olshen Wechsler

Larry Gettleman

May 3, 2012

Gary and Terry joined our Boy Scout Troop 35 at the American Legion Hall on Alton Road near Dade Blvd in the early 1950s. My dad was scoutmaster and then skipper of Explorer Ship 35. We spent many hours on the Tarpon Springs fisherman my dad obtained for the group, and a few summer weeks at the Jacksonville Naval Air Station. Everyone knew when Gary was around. The values and friendships earned in scouting were carried throughout his life. Farewell, old friend.

Earl Rodney

May 3, 2012

I knew Gary when I was CFO for the Broward Partnership for the Homeless. My deepest condolences to Frances.

Susan Chandler

May 2, 2012

Gary: The boss that taught me how to be a litigation secretary when I didn't know what litigation meant. The boss that babysat my son so that I could attend a class after work when my childcare plan failed (I will never forget that Fran, thank you!!). The boss who wrote, directed and filmed the “Firm Film” with lights, cameras, costumes and a full cast for 4 years straight (and boy was that fun). The best and most unbiased boss I ever had the pleasure of working for. The boss that loved all people regardless of race, creed or color, he genuinely cared about all of mankind. I have no doubt that comedy and laughter abounds in heaven now. The other angels are huddled around you and you're telling a good story. But you will be sorely missed and fondly remembered here on earth, Gary. Rest peacefully.

May 2, 2012

Edward Spievack

May 2, 2012

Terry walked me from Polo park to meet his new friend Gary. I found out quickly no one could out talk or out think him. He was the first to not let me forget I fell flat on my face in a Beach football game even 40 years later. Have been sad to even think about your loss Eddie Spievack

Maureen Cooper

May 2, 2012

We have truly lost a bright and shining star. Gary was the smartest and funniest guy I ever met. He was a good friend and we shared many laughs. He loved his children very much and adored Fran. May you rest in peace friend till we meet again.

May 2, 2012

All the memories are good ones. Recent class of '58' events give me the chance to see Gary again, and this was the same person I remember with a little more years of a 'life worth living' added. My sincerest condolences to the entire family and close friends. Jerry Rosenberg

Mike Samway

May 1, 2012

Gary, thank you for your friendship and counsel, and be blessed forever.

Maris King Gherman

May 1, 2012

Gary,

You have been such a tremendous part of the King family and all of our "Sheppy" experiences. You were always there for us with your humor, sensitivity and love and I feel like I have lost another big brother!! I can only hope you, Bobby and Shep are playing golf in a better place. My love and condolences go out to Fran, Jake and Zach and your entire family!

roxana and dillan ramirez

May 1, 2012

Our love and prayers to the Brooks Family from Roxana and Dillan Ramirez. He will forever be remembered for his kindness and generousity....and for ALL of the wonderful and amazing times at the FAIR. Thank You Gary xo

May 1, 2012

Gary, you will always be in our thoughts. Our
condolences to your family. You will be greatly
missed.
June and Meyer Wolfson

May 1, 2012

We are saddened to lose Gary but such a joy to know him and have starring roles in his "Shep King" birthday productions. He will be missed by all.
Lyn and Bob Parks-Coconut Grove, Florida

Larry Gettleman

May 1, 2012

We remember Gary from our days in scouting in the early 1950s and at Nautilus. He has been a class leader ever since. A great loss for us all.

Benjamin Baum

May 1, 2012

Brother Mine Forever. I am fortunate to know you through the goodness, passion and truth you saw and further inculcated in Rick. God Speed. Go Gators and Crimson PC74

April 30, 2012

Fran, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Gary fought the good fight and is now at peace reaping the rewards of God's Kingdom.
-George, Diane & Natalie Comeaux

Dalee Esposito

April 30, 2012

Always in our <3 u touched the lives of many and we were so thankful to have known you xo

Dodie Keith-Lazowick

April 30, 2012

Gary has joined a dear friend and we will miss them both dearly. His deep love of his family will ever endure.
My heart is with you.

The Morrissey's

April 30, 2012

Gary was many things to many people and to my family he was not just a beloved Uncle but a mentor. He was always a kid at heart and always wanted the best for everyone. You will always be in our hearts and memories!

Rod and Aleena

April 30, 2012

Our sympathy to the Brooks/Esposito Family. May the Holy Scripture offer needed strength in your time of difficulty. Ecclesiastes 7:1 gave us a comforting reminder that "A name is better than good oil, and the day of death than the day of one's being born."

Steve Hertz

April 30, 2012

My memories of you and of the good times we shared shall remain treasured. Your contributions to friends, family, community and country will not be forgotten. We all, and especially the Miami Beach High School Class of 58 will miss you.

John Primeau

April 30, 2012

May you rest in peace

Kimberly Willis

April 30, 2012

Gary was a prince among men, a voracious litigator and quintessential gentleman. I will miss you, Gary! My sincerest condolences to Frances Esposito - he adored you; and to the entire Brooks/Esposito family

April 30, 2012

You're a good man, Gary Brooks!
Allen Shevach '58 MBHS

Artie Lane

April 30, 2012

Gary's enthusiam, humor, wit, intelligence and affability was a
true candle of light that brightly lit the life experiences of the Miami Beach High School Class of 58 as well as many others who cared about and loved him. He was one of a kind and will be missed by all who knew him. RIP Gary.

Enid Berman

April 30, 2012

Rest in peace

Mitchell Mandler

April 30, 2012

Gary wrote the best Haggadah for the Passover service. It was so popular that I've had frequests from friends all over the country to "send me a copy so we can use it". I worked with Gary at the Zack Kosnitzky law firm. I was amazed that even in the middle of week long trial, if it was his evening for visitation with his boys, he took them out to dinner and would not miss that evening with them, no matter how much preparation he had for the next day of trial.

Floyd Stern

April 30, 2012

I first met Gary probably in junior high school. I admired his humor, his intelligence, his drive, and his kindness. I also admired his sense of life...always fun. I don't think he had a mean bone in his body. He offered so much to so many. I will certainly miss him. Glory and I wish Frances and his entire family our deepest sympathy.

Floyd Stern

Vayola Lindor

April 30, 2012

"Gary was one in a million. He touched everyone he met with his humor, wit and intelligence. He was a true renaissance man and will be missed."

Leni

April 30, 2012

Fran - You gave Gary the best years of his life and stood so strong during these rough times. May you find peace in knowing you did everything possible and more! I will never forget Gary's humor. May your whole family be blessed.

Richard OBrien

April 30, 2012

Gary fought many good fights and was admired for his exceptional legal talents and personal touch. His counsel could be counted on to be direct and brilliant. Rest in peace Gary, and, my condolences to his family and friends.

MARC SOKOLIK

April 30, 2012

BROOKSIE YOU AND I WERE FRIENDS FOR SO MANY YEARS STARTING AT POLO PARK
IN THE 1950'S. THEY SHOULD HAVE A STATUE OF US BOTH PLAYING BALL THERE BECAUSE WE SPENT SO MANY HOURS THERE. GOD REST YOUR LOVABLE SOUL. IT HAS ONLY BEEN A FEW DAYS SINCE YOUR PASSING BUT I MISS YOU ALREADY PAL. NOW TO REMEMBER ALL THE JOKES AND GREAT TIMES WE HAD. YOU WERE THE BEST
SOCKO

Gregg and Darlene Truxton

April 30, 2012

We were so saddened to hear of Gary's passing. Can't help but smile at all of the humor he brought to the world. We were all fortunate to have known Him. God Bless You Gary...Our thoughts and prayers are with You and Your Family.

Dorothy Pitcher

April 30, 2012

The world is always sadder when good people leave it. Thank you for taking a chance on me and teaching me everything I know today as a legal assistant. I always enjoyed your intellect and humor. Keep them on their toes in Heaven, RIP.

Showing 1 - 46 of 46 results

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18840 W. Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33180

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Sign GARY BROOKS's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

April 8, 2025

Wen Mew posted to the memorial.

April 24, 2023

Stephanie Logan Kennedy posted to the memorial.

April 24, 2023

Maureen Cooper posted to the memorial.