Antone Jamal "Buster" Brooks

On July 27, 2025, an angel descended from heaven, wrapped their wings around Antone Jamal Brooks, and carried him home through the heavenly gates of glory.

Antone was born on December 20, 1999, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to Dakasha Chekyl Hooks and Anthony Brooks. He began his educational journey in Hampton, Virginia, attending Bassette Elementary School and Lindsay Middle School, where he was known for his loving nature, quiet focus, astute poise, and academic excellence. In 2013, he moved to the DMV area and continued his studies in Prince George's County Public Schools, ultimately graduating from Tall Oaks High School in 2019.

A gifted scholar, Antone excelled in Mathematics and English-two subjects he not only loved but mastered. He often tutored his siblings in mathematics where they welcomed his assistance, expertise, focused support, and cool and calm demeanor. His writing reflected the same ease and skill, always accompanied by his signature precise penmanship. Antone truly had the heart of a mathematician and the soul of a writer.

Antone was known for his quiet demeanor and compassionate spirit that left an impression on everyone who knew him. His favorite color was red, often woven into his daily style with pride. Antone was affectionately nicknamed "Buster" by his maternal great-grandmother-a name that remained with him throughout his life. Always ready to help, Antone loved assisting his aunts in the kitchen with his favorite foods being pizza and macaroni and cheese-comfort foods that matched his comforting presence. He also enjoyed watching movies, playing the Xbox and PlayStation, and having long and meaningful conversations with his Aunties. Additionally, he esteemed being a source of support wherever a need arose. A natural leader, Antone found deep pride and joy in his role as the oldest sibling and big cousin. He cherished the title of "big brother" and embraced the responsibilities it brought. He loved training and conditioning his younger siblings and younger cousin in football and basketball, patiently teaching them plays and techniques with passion and pride. His patience and leadership left a lasting impression.

Antone's interests were as diverse as they were heartfelt. He had a deep love for animals and happily cared for his sister and aunt's dog with pride and dedication – a responsibility he carried with joy and honor. One of his proudest and most profound moments was rescuing a discarded teacup Yorkie with his sister, Antonyetta. Together, they nurtured him back to health, and Antone affectionately named him Rico, lovingly referring to him as "my little nephew Rico." Antone also had a natural talent for music. He enjoyed creating beats, freestyling, and playing the piano by ear, effortlessly crafting original melodies that reflected his creative spirit. With ease, Antone turned his emotions into beautiful, soulful harmonies. Beyond music, Antone enjoyed working out and staying active. He took pride in working out at the gym alongside his Auntie Teshara and assumed the role of her "personal trainer." He was passionate about cars, often talking about makes, models, and his ultimate dream vehicles with a sparkle in his eyes. Whether it was music, sports, or cars, Antone pursued his passions with quiet determination, strength, and joy.

Antone was preceded in death by his brother, Antonio Jarrod Brooks (Hampton, VA); his maternal great-grandmothers, Ida Louise Basnight (Norfolk, VA) and Clara Hooks (Newburgh, NY); his maternal great-grandfather, Thomas Ruffin (Philadelphia, PA); and his maternal grandfather, John Kyle Ruffin-Hooks (Newburgh, NY).

He leaves to cherish his memory: his mother, Dakasha Chekyl Hooks (DMV); his father, Anthony Brooks (Hampton, VA); maternal grandmother, Joann Edwards Hooks (DMV); two brothers, Anton Larry Brooks and Antwone James Brooks; one sister, Antonyetta Dashelle Brooks(all of the DMV); his beloved cousin, Nathan Knolei` Morrell O'Shay Holmes III (DMV); maternal aunts, Teshara Niquan Hooks, Reshanda Franshe` Hooks, Shayla Keon` Hooks, and Kyera Jo`Sengi Rios (all of the DMV); and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, family, and friends who loved him dearly. God has welcomed Antone Jamal Brooks into the Heavenly Kingdom of everlasting love, peace, and joy. He is now and forever wrapped safely in God's arms.