Freddie Brooks

Freddie Brooks obituary, Arlington, VA

Freddie Brooks

Freddie Brooks Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 4, 2025.
Freddie Bernett Brooks, more affectionately known as "Fred," entered eternal rest on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at the age of 85. He was born on January 9, 1940, in Washington, D.C., to the late Freddie Brooks, Sr. and Pearl Lewis-Brooks.

A lifelong resident of Arlington, Virginia, Fred attended Hoffman Boston High School. His love of music led him to study trumpet where he played in his high school band. He was also a star basketball player and was voted Mr. Hoffman Boston in his senior year. Because of his exceptional athletic abilities and grades, Fred received a scholarship to attend Virginia State University (then known as "Little State").

Years later, Fred began his career with the United States Postal Service. He enjoyed connecting with people while delivering the mail and could often be heard joking with his customers, especially the senior citizens on his route. At the age of twenty-five, he was hired as a trumpeter by a local band to play on nights and weekends. In the early 1960's, Fred became a founding member and leader of The Sidewinders band which played at various events and venues around the DMV, including The Shelter Room and The Howard Theater in D.C., as well as the NCO Club at the Bethesda Naval Base in Maryland.

For many years, he was a versatile trumpeter at Mount Olive Baptist Church, and he also offered his services to other churches and civic organizations in the greater metropolitan Washington, D.C., region. Having a natural rapport with both young and old, Fred frequently volunteered at Arlington's George Washington Carver Community Center teaching young people and senior citizens the value of both sacred and secular music.

Fred always knew how to make people laugh, even in his later years when his failing health made things difficult. His admirable sense of humor shown through on his worst days to brighten up everyone else's. During the struggle with his illness, he remained a pillar of strength and a constant reminder of God's presence in his life. His unwavering optimism and radiant smile have been a constant source of inspiration for many.

Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, March 10 at Mount Olive Baptist Church, Arlington, VA. Arrangements by Bianchi Funeral Services, visit BianchiFuneralServices.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Freddie Brooks's Guest Book

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March 12, 2025

Daniel Young posted to the memorial.

March 12, 2025

Deanna McNeil posted to the memorial.

March 9, 2025

Allan J Burton III posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

Daniel Young

March 12, 2025

You will never be forgotten....I love you & miss you! Please Tell my Wife (your daughter) that I love & miss her everyday!

Deanna McNeil

March 12, 2025

I only met Freddie in his sunset years but another outstanding quality of Freddie was his deep love and respect for the Creator. Condolences to the family, Fred was a joy to know even during sickness!

Allan J Burton III

March 9, 2025

Condolences to the family

Peaceful Reflections

Kathy & Todd Trzaskoma

Sent Flowers

Ann Royster

March 6, 2025

Freddie was truly a good friend who was loved by many of his postal friends. He played his trumpet at many black history programs that was at the postal service. I was also able to hear him perform at churches in Arlington and Dale City VA. He was very talented and you could not have had a better friend. Freddie may God wrap his arms around you, Bill and Charlie celebrating the friendship you have until we see you again.

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Bianchi Funeral Service - Washington

814 Upshur Street N.W., Washington, DC 20011

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Sign Freddie Brooks's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

March 12, 2025

Daniel Young posted to the memorial.

March 12, 2025

Deanna McNeil posted to the memorial.

March 9, 2025

Allan J Burton III posted to the memorial.