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Rev. Dr. George Benjamin Brooks Sr.

George Brooks Obituary

Rev. Dr. George Benjamin Brooks, Sr. Pastor, father, grandfather, community leader, civil rights activist, educator and friend, Rev. Dr. George Benjamin Brooks, Sr., peacefully went home to be with the Lord on September 26, 2007 after a nine month battle with lung cancer. Dr. Brooks was born Benjamin Harrison Brooks on January 18, 1926 in Edisto Island, South Carolina. His parents were Willie and Susie Brooks. No one is quite sure how the name George came about, however by the time he was 4 years old and according to the 1930 South Carolina census, he was listed as George Brooks. His father passed away when he and his sister, Wilhelmina were very young. Wilhelmina went to live in New York with her mother, and George stayed down South with his grandmother, Sara Brown. It was not only until her death in 1941, that he moved to New York City. In 1944, during World War II, he enlisted into the Navy. He went to basic training in Great Lakes, Illinois and was assigned to a sub-tender. After World War II, he and sister went to college on his GI Bill. He graduated from Johnson C. Smith University, majoring in Pre-Law and was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He remained active in the military, serving as a Lieutenant/Chaplin in the National Guard. He received his Master's of Divinity from New York Theological Seminary in 1951. It was in 1953 when, Presbyterian executives approached the now Rev. Brooks and persuaded him to come to Arizona and start the first African American Presbyterian Church in Arizona. Besides pastoring his growing congregation at Southminster Presbyterian Church, he began to campaign civil rights causes in Phoenix, serving as President of the NAACP from 1964 to 1972. It was also during this time period that he ran into a child who had flunked kindergarten because he couldn't read. This child's situation troubled him and began looking for funding in the Phoenix area for a public preschool. Since this funding was not available, he went back east and found others who had similiar ideas. Along with these people, he wrote 70 percent of the federal legislation that was to become HEADSTART. He received a Master's of Education from ASU in 1973, and in 1976, Rev. Brooks, became Dr. Brooks, receiving in PhD in Ministry and Counseling from San Francisco Theological Seminary. Additionally, he received and a Doctor of Divinity Degree (Honoris Causa) from Johnson C. Smith Seminary in 1995. After retiring from Southminster Presbyterian Church in 1996, Dr. Brooks kept himself busy by playing golf, buying and selling houses and traveling. In June of this year a he traveled to Alaska, thus reaching his goal of seeing all 50 states. Dr. Brooks was preceded in death by his father, mother and sister. He leaves behind his loving wife of 53 years, Lula, his son George Jr., his daughter Susan Morris, his five cherished granddaughters, LuLaura Garie, Haley Brooks, Amber Stanford, Hasina Brooks and Miracle Morris along with a nost of cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, collegues and admirers. Dr. Brooks will lie in state at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 1923 E. Broadway Rd., Phoenix, Az on Thursday, October 4, 2007 from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Funeral Services will be Friday, October 5, 2007 at 11:00 am with a viewing from 9:00 am.-10:45 am. at Historic First Presbyterian Church, 402 W. Monroe St., Phoenix, Az. Interment at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery. Services entrusted to Universal Memorial Center 602-252-6011.

Click here to view the obituary as it appeared in print.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Oct. 3, 2007.
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MANY MANY BLESSINGS......RIP....GONE NOT FORGOTTEN

Valenda Newell

July 13, 2016

Dr. Brooks was such a wonderful person. He walked the walk and talked the talk for justice and fair treatment for all persons. He was the trainer for the Phx youth NAACP organization for non-violence demonstration. He will be remembered for the Christian dignity he displayed and the wonderful legacy he established in Phoenix. He will be missed. Our prayers are with the entire Brooks family. Lovingly, The Smith Family: Yvonne, Bill and Annette and their families

Annette Smith Willis

October 21, 2007

WOW...Where do I start? First I will like to send my condolences to the entire Brooks family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Rev. Brooks has touched my family tremendously. From the very first time that we meet him. My mother was employed with him for years until her disability. Dr. Brooks was a great mentor and a big influance in my brother Nkosi's life, sadly Nkosi couldn't be with us to celebrate his homegoing. But his thoughts and prayers are with the family..In closing i just want to say. Don't be afraid to let someone else know what they mean to
you. WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU......

Love,
Burton Family

Damesha Burton

October 15, 2007

I give thanks to God today for Uncle George who has taken his place among the ancestors. I will always remember his love, support, guidance and words of encouragement. I will treasure the memories of recent NBPC conventions, and heed the advice that you gave me at my ordination. Love always.

Rev. Kimani Wright

October 13, 2007

You gave me my first after school volunteer job, working as a headstart assistant. You really made me feel very important, standing on the play ground, in 110 degree summer heat watching the children play. The best time was when your daughter joined the kids and cried when she had to leave. I also would like to thank you for allowing me to work for pay when I was going to college. I will never forget the things you taught me, giving back to our community and being the best at whatever you choose to be. I will truely miss your enlightened wisdom and kindness.

Phyllis Douglas

October 10, 2007

A visionary, a crusader, a campaigner against injustice and the hypocrisy of the American system. Rev. Brooks helped and advised me (and my family) when I first came to the Valley 40 years ago and faced discrimination, bigotry, and prejudice, for which I shall always be thankful. He always looked out for his fellow man.

N. Burton Attico, MD, MPH

October 10, 2007

Uncle George, We miss you dearly! Thank you for the strength, knowledge, wisdom and most of all ALL THE LOVE you have given me and shared with me. Not sure what I am going to do without you, but through your guidance, I will continue on the track you and I so often spoke about. When I graduate, you will indeed be there with me, as planned. Love you Much and more. God Bless your soul, blessings to the whole family from the East coast to the West coast.

Ila Washington

October 8, 2007

To the family of George Brooks, Sr.

Yesterday's service was a beautiful tribute to George and his legacy. Blessings to each of you as you adjust to his transition from your daily life.

Love and Light to you all!

Jackie Garner

October 6, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Gail Gaffney, Moore

October 5, 2007

Dear DR.Brooks, first and formost i'd like to say thankyou!!!!!!!!! For all that you have done,for my family over the years.You are a Great man, who will be truly missed by all.God and my grandmother Isabel Stewart will welcome you with open arms,you were always her favorite.Please watch over my son Brandyn let him know how much i miss him,he'll be the angel with long wings and big feet.Once again on the behalf of myself and all the Fuller family Thank you!!!!!

Raymond Fuller

October 5, 2007

God Bless You in your time of bereavement.

Vaughn Lane

October 5, 2007

To the Brooks Family:

Our hearts and sympathy are with you during this very difficult time. We will all keep you in our prayers.

Marian Webber

October 5, 2007

Rev. Brooks made such an impact on our community. His presence in South Phoenix is an inspiration to all that knew him. May God give you comfort in your hour of need.

Addie Payton

October 5, 2007

We pray that the Brooks family will be comforted in knowing that Dr. Brooks' living was not in vain. He was a impressive mentor, pastor, friend, and asset to our entire community and his legacy will not be forgotten.

Brent & Cynthia Metoyer

October 5, 2007

With our deepest sympathy we express our condolences. Rev. Brooks was truly an inspiration to us all, our families have known each other for many, many years and he will be truly missed. We celebrate his homecoming. God bless you!

In Christ
The Starr Family
Billy Sr.
Billy Jr.
Debra
Jerita

Billy Starr, Sr.

October 5, 2007

May God be with you and all of your family.

Betty Lee and family

October 5, 2007

May peace be in your mind and hearts.

Mary Lee

October 5, 2007

Rev. Dr. Brooks was a great man who I admired deeply. He showed me kindness when I was new on the Roosevelt District school board. He expressed patience and guidance and I will never forget his smile and sense of humor.
He was respected highly by our entire family and we feel privileged to have known him and to have worked with him.

Norma & Jimmie Munoz

October 4, 2007

It is with great sympathy that God has taken Rev Brooks from us. He was most loved and admired as both a family man, spiritual leader and statesman. The city of Phoenix and most certaintly South Phoenix will miss his guiding hand.

Jane Riley

October 4, 2007

It is with my deepest sympathy that I submit my condolences.

Doris Lewis

October 4, 2007

Angela, and Geogre Jr.

I am so glad that I had the chance to meet Dr. Brooks. What an inspiration he was to many.

May you know that he is resting from his toils.
I love you both..........Naomi Skinner

Naomi Skinner

October 4, 2007

Just a minute with Rev. Brooks has stayed with me a lifetime. He was truly an officer in the army of the Lord. His leadership on the front lines made Arizona a better place. May he rest in peace.

Brian & Janice Barham

October 4, 2007

I was a student at South Minster Head Start when I first met Rev. Brooks. I will never forget his kindness. One morning Rev. Brooks came into our class and all of us kids ran to hug him and then something rather extraordinary happened-all of us kids were reaching for him to pick us up, but he looked and saw me...I was the one he chose. I treasure that memory eventhough it has been almost 20 years since he picked me up. I still tell that story from time to time. He made me feel so special. I will cry over his temporary absence. I will grieve for a llittle while with the Brooks family, but we know where Rev. Brooks is and we know he is in God's hands. Therefore I would like to say to Brooks family you can trust God because you all are in His hands too. My heart felt prayers are with you.

Brandi Johnson

October 3, 2007

Dr. Brooks was a powerful presence in my life and I honor and love him very much for his contribution. His life was meaningful to so many people. I will miss him, but the imprint of his legacy will forever tie his presence to all the people he so passionately served. I would like to express my sympathy to the Brooks family. My love and my prayers are with you.

Carmelia Johnson

October 3, 2007

It was my pleasure to have met Rev. Brooks. Many lives have been made easier because of his works. My heart and prayers go out to his family today.

Shirly Hudson

October 3, 2007

To the Brooks Family,

The Reverend Dr. George B. Brooks,Sr. was a giant among men, a kind and gentle man who believed in God, and whose motto was always that all things must be done decently and in order.

He ministered to all those who sought his wise counsel and never hesitated to respond to any request no matter what, where or when.

We shall miss him but know that he has joined the Church Triumphant and is rejoicing with those who have preceeded him on this last journey.

Peace be still.

Gloria Young and family.

Gloria Young

October 3, 2007

Rev. Brooks will never be forgotten in our hearts and minds. We will never forget his kindness, spirit, and the laughter that he brought to my entire family, (Bruce, James, and Williams families). We know that he is now in the everlasting Church Triumphant and we will all see him once again. Our deepest sympathy to the Brooks family. We will always love him dearly.

Sandra (Katie) and Charles Williams

October 3, 2007

My sincere condolences go out to Rev. Brooks Family. Just know that he is in the lords arms.

Gwendolyn Landrum-Brown

October 3, 2007

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Emelda Williams

October 2, 2007

Barbara Shuler-Manning

October 2, 2007

Rev. Brooks will be greatly missed not only in our South Phoenix Communities but in our Hearts, My Sister Vivian was employed every summer and after school with with the summer Youth Program, I worked there after school during my Jr, yr. in high school, and my Mom was a cook there.... P.S. The Elementary School my sisters and I attended Palmdale Elem. , Is now name after Rev. Brook ( Brooks Academy) God Belss....The Shuler's

Barbara Shuler-Manning

October 2, 2007

REV./Dr. Brook, was truly a soldier of of the Lord and his weapons were energy,words, and his desire for all to be treated Fairly--I shall never forget--When he made the comment at the late Dr. Morrison Warren's funeral--"He should have been a Dean at ASU"--even in death --he fought for legeacy of those who deserve--soldiers never die--their spirits remain among us.

Ron Cox

October 2, 2007

Rev. Brooks will be truely missed. He has done alot for the South Phoenix area. I thank God that I had the opportunity to work and get to know him when he was Director of the Head Start Program At Southminster. My condolences to the Brooks family and all those who will miss him here on earth.

Laura Isensee

October 2, 2007

Dr. Brooks was truly a beacon in the community. He was always there with that warm smile, gentle spirit, and words that went beyond wisdom. He will be missed greatly my me and my family. God bless you and yours, Dr. Brooks.

Stacia Holmes

October 2, 2007

I have attended services a couple times at Rev. George Brook's church and I always felt welcomed. My prayers go out to his family and church family. God has an Angel watching over you now.

Alicia Barnett

October 2, 2007

Our prayers are with you. As we experienced the passing of our father last year, Rev. Brooks was right there to give us comfort and words of wisdom. He and my father, Arthur Strong served on the Roosevelt School board together. He will be greatly missed by our family. Looks like they have met up again.... in a better place.

Karen Strong-Du Four

October 1, 2007

To the Brooks Family,

Your wonderful father made a powerful impact on our family as he ministered to my brother and me during the deaths of our parents, Ernest and Norma Nedd, neither of whom were members of his congregation.But he was the preacher my mother most respected, not only for his leadership in the community, but for the consistent way he honored and respected his wife and family. I thank God for his presence in our lives. My sincerest condolences to you, Mrs. Brooks, and to your children and grandchildren.I will be praying for you.

Pamela Nedd Larson

October 1, 2007

REV.BROOKS, YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY THE JAMES FAMILY WE LOVE YOU AND WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE THINGS YOU DID FOR OUR FAMILY. TO THE FAMILY WE WILL ALL SEE OUR BELOVED REV. AGAIN MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL MR.AND MRS HENRY JONES AND THE JAMES FAMILY

HENRY JONES

October 1, 2007

My prayers are with Rev. Dr. Brooks as he journeys home to be with our heavly and are with his family at this difficult time. His love and caring for the people of Phoenix in general and those of South Phoenix in particulair was demonstrated through his life-long committment to Arizona. Dr. Brooks will be sorely missed. May God's Blessings and love confort the Brooks Family.

Respectfully,

Bevann Garnes

September 30, 2007

I man of God that loved serving people. Thank God for a man like you that help keep young people off the streets on the weekends with saturday night dances. I thank you for that.Go now and rest job well done!!

Kathryn Moore

September 30, 2007

The South Phoenix Community has lost a kind and gentile soul this week.

I had the pleasure to have worked with Dr. George Brooks on the Roosevelt School Board for many years, while we did not always agree; I had a tremendous amount of respect and admiration for this man and his work.
My family and I send our condolences to the Brooks Family; you are in our prayers and thoughts.

“Whether we shall meet again I know not.
Therefore our everlasting farewell take.”
.

Carlos Avelar & Family

September 30, 2007

Dear Family,

Our thoughts & prayes are with you all at this time. We know that George has gone home to be with his Lord.

"Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy."
Author Unknown

With our love & thoughts,
Michael Church & Gretchen Garie-Church

Gretchen Garie- Church

September 30, 2007

Dr. George Brooks cared passionately about education, community, justice. He was an inspiration to me, as an educator and I cherish the memory of our conversations. He was a living example of doing and saying the right thing, at the right time, of speaking truth and respectful listening. His example shines on in his children and grandchildren and our thoughts and prayers are with them all.

Elizabeth, Paul and Amalia Horan and Skilton

September 30, 2007

"Weeping endures for a night, but joy comes in the morning." We knew and loved Rev. Brooks for many years. We share in your grief and are praying for you.

LeeDell & Anita Bunton, Sr.

September 29, 2007

Reverend Brooks worked tirelessly for all the people in South Phoenix. My family and I have many fond memories of the Reverend. Reverend Brooks always had a kind word and words of wisdom for us whenever we met. I shall always think of Reverend Brooks and his unselfish leadership in the Civil Rights movement here in Phoenix. Thank you, Reverend Brooks.

Patrick and Letha Barrett

September 29, 2007

My teacher my mentor my friend i will miss him and will never forget about the love he instilled in me. I love him and he will never be forgotten as long as i live.To the family I want to thank you for sharing your father, your husband, your grandfather, with us the community. He was such an inspiring leader, activist, pastor,friend. Thanks for giving me a good life with all the sacrifices he went through for me

DonDon reed

September 29, 2007

Rev. Brooks will be truly missed. I praise God for his labor and care toward the people of Arizona. We are a better people because of him. His family members are in my prayers.

Robin Kornegay

September 28, 2007

Rev Brooks...What would we, the kids, from South Phoenix do without you. As well as the after-school program at the church. We can’t Thank you enough for believing in us and attempting to make a difference. Job well done! You showed us your love, kindness & words of inspiration. Thank You for ALL of your Great accomplishments in trying to change our lives for the better. You will truly be missed! My condolences go out to you Lula and your family. From Ms Maria & her kids.

Lydia Haro

September 28, 2007

To put to words the thanks it would take to sum-up the legacy of Rev. Brooks is a task none should try. He will be missed and should be an inspiration to all that have known or will learn about him. May his legacy live on in the substantive ACTIONS of others who live to serve humanity.

P.S. and George, if you see Lincoln tell him I said hi... - Opal

Ellis & Maupin Family

September 27, 2007

My deepest sympathy to the family and may God's comforter be there for you.

Janice Perkins

September 27, 2007

Rev. Brooks, you personified, with dignity and strength, the best that our community has to offer. Yours is a loss that will never be replaced or forgotten. Our thanks to you for the inspiration and friendship you've provided over the years. Your legacy will, indeed, live on.

The Williamsons

September 27, 2007

Rev. Brooks family are in my prayers and the God will give the family strength.

Torres Family

Valerie Torres

September 27, 2007

Rev. Brooks was one of the great men in Arizona's history because of his impact on the civil rights movement. He was also one of the nicest people you would ever know. God bless you, George.

Mark Shaffer

September 27, 2007

To the family,

May God continually comfort and bless you. Rev. Brooks was a great man in the South Phoenix community and in the city of Phoenix as well. Over the years our families have had a long relationship in the fight for civil rights. My dad often has spoken highly of Rev. Brooks and stood along side him. I will contiue to lift you up in prayer.

Jerald Goode

September 27, 2007

Sandra and I remember George Brooks for his good works, strength and dediction to his principales. He inspired us and many others to join in the good fight for civil rights and other causes. For this we are thankful and will remember him.

Richard & Sandra Wilks

September 27, 2007

My prayers are with the Brooks family. God Bless.

Ramona Hamilton

September 27, 2007

God picks his roses...Dr. Brooks touched many lives, mine included. In the end God has said, "Well done, my good and faithful servant"... To God be the glory. My condolences to his family

Vivian Smith

September 27, 2007

Reverend Brooks will be truly missed in the community. Before I knew of the struggles he fought and the civil rights he championed, I knew him as a kind neighbor when I was a child. Rev. Brooks always spoke in a straight forward manner and if he said something was going to be done, you knew you could trust his word. South Phoenix has lost a great man.I will keep his family in prayer.

Michelle Mathis

September 27, 2007

The entire community has lost a true gentleman, a dedicated minister, a committed educator and a very caring person.

Barbara Garland

September 27, 2007

Have not had communication with the Rev.George Brooks for many years. It was my pleasure to be his friend during his most active days in his service to his family friends and State. The Lord will bless him for his goodness..
With Respect

Ralph A Watkins Jr

September 27, 2007

My prayers are with the George Brooks Sr. family. George Jr. & Angela, I'm especially praying for you during this difficult time. With Much Love.

Paula Wright

September 27, 2007

Free at last, free at last. Thank God Almighty, he's free at last.

LaShonte Williams

September 27, 2007

I do not know much about the late Reverend Brooks, and I must say that it is my loss that I was not able to have the pleasure of meeting such an outstanding individual.

K L Johnson

September 27, 2007

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