Jerry Wayne Brooks, 75, of Moberly, MO, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2025. He was born on August 11, 1950, in Howard County, Missouri, to Donald Brooks and Cleo Wilborn Venable.
Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1971 to 1975, earning an honorable discharge and receiving the Good Conduct Medal. Following his service, he attended Truman University earning his Bachelor's in Criminal Justice. He then began his career at Norfolk Southern Railroad working his way up to Railroad detective, until his retirement, where his strong work ethic and dedication were well known.
In 1976, Jerry met the love of his life, Jan Benner. The two were married in 1977 and shared a beautiful life together. Jerry and Jan were blessed with a son, Justin, and Jerry also embraced Jan’s two daughters, who he jokingly referred to as "orphaned children", Melissa and Melinda, as his own. His devotion to family was unwavering, and he found great joy in being a husband, father, and provider. Jerry will be remembered for his loyalty, quiet strength, and the deep love he carried for his family.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jan; his children, Justin (Michelle) Brooks of Rockmart, GA, Melissa (Kris Bussen) Janson of Moberly, MO, Melinda (Charlie) Reed of Cairo, MO; a sister, Amy (Gary) Workman of Tulsa, OK; grandchildren, Zack (Addison) & Natalie Scoggins, Clabe & Dalton Reed, Jordan & Maddy Wooten & Kristopher Jr.; great grandchildren, Kendal Reed, Reese and Carter Scoggins; as well as great neighbors who hold a special place in the heart of Jerry and family, Doug and Laurie Farrow.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Donald Brooks and Cleo Wilborn Venable.
Per Jerry's wishes there will not be a service. A graveside memorial will be held at a later date for family.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Compassus Hospice, for their care and support.
Jerry’s legacy of love, strength, and service will live on through his family and all who knew him.
Local arrangements are under the direction of Pathway-Millard Family Funeral Chapel, 411 Union Avenue, Moberly, MO 65270 (660)263-7284. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pathwaymemorial.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
411 Union Avenue PO Box 367, Moberly, MO 65270
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more