Russell Howard Brooks

Russ was such a unique and special person in so many ways. He made an impact on the way that I - and probably quite a few others - view the world, and he provided me with a sense of appreciation for certain things that I otherwise would never have had. During our adolescence he would make certain observations to which I would have otherwise been oblivious, ultimately rubbing off on me and shaping my skills of perception and insight to a degree that still manifests today. He changed me for the better, but more importantly I am genuinely grateful for the opportunity to have had him as a friend.

A promotion photo for Gypsy Blonde, 1991.

I am Russ's aunt Cathy. I have fond memories of him as a little boy...just look at Gwen's pictures , especially the birthday cake celebrating his grandmother Catherine's birthday. All the grandchildren were helping with the candles but look at who was the key player...adorable . My husband Gus Nagy took the pictures at our home in NJ...great memories . And thank you Gail for making all this happen ...a true gift to all the who loved him.

It all started when I asked for quarters. I remember his smile and how absolutely safe I immediately felt in his presence. I must have been about 14 when I met him, and ever since that day he has always held a special place in my heart. Russ was undoubtedly competitive, absolutely hilarious, and brilliantly intelligent. I loved watching him play at Phil and Eddie's. Some of my best memories involve him, and it was always so easy to stay in touch with him and pick up as if nothing was ever left off. He was always a great listener and had terrific advice. I admired and loved his sense of adventure so much. Russ was an inspiration and the world will never be the same without him. Love you buddy

I met Russ in High School, he was always rolling around on that skateboard of his making himself known with that wild red hair. His presence was known when he was around you, he was very kind, hilarious, and had no fear. He will be missed by many.

Russell was my same-age cousin. We had a lot of fun together, especially the summer he and Kristine lived with us for a while. We had been out of touch for a long time, except for the email updates in recent years. May he finally be at peace.

I first met Russ riding BMX bikes at the Wildwood NJ boardwalk during the summer he moved there. He had a gray Diamond Back. I thought he was just another tourist kid at the time but he told me he had just moved to Wildwood so I was pretty stoked to make a new friend that was also into bikes and skateboards as I was new to Wildwood myself. Next thing you know he's in my homeroom class at Wildwood High and we were close friends ever since even with me being in the Navy and moving to Australia. We always managed to keep the friendship going like there was no time or distance in between. Russ was one of the best friends I've ever had. He was a lovely person and I will miss him dearly.

Russ was a unique character. He transferred into my high school and I remember seeing him on the sunlit stairwell for the first time while switching classes. His eyes were copper. I would give him a ride home from school now and then during our senior year, but it was during my freshman year of college that we became close friends. Russ introduced me to new music and new people and truly unlocked a part of myself that may never have come to light had I not known him. I still cherish friendships today with people I met through Russ or because of Russ. He is gone too soon.