Willie J. Brooks

Willie James Brooks, 85, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully at his residence on October 14, 2025.

Born in Bolton, North Carolina, to the late Willie and Estelle Brooks, Willie lived a life of dedication, faith, and service. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant and later continued his career in Civil Service before retiring from that as well. Willie was a resident of Fort Walton Beach and a devout Catholic. He was deeply loved by all who knew him, and he never met a stranger.

Willie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rozlyn, who passed away in May of this year. He is survived by his sons, Jerome V. Brooks and Sheldon Todd Gatlin; daughter, Wendy-Louise (Sandy Kay Skwor) Gatlin; sisters, Jacqueline (Rev. Jerry) Ganus of Whiteville, NC, and Shelia Brooks of Bolton, NC; and brother, Samuel (Margaret) Brooks of Chesterfield, VA.

He was a proud grandfather to Briona, Jeron, Sierra, Parker Jade, Sheldon Paul, and Keaton Tyne, and a cherished great-grandfather to Ethan. He also leaves behind special nephews Gary (Valerie) Piatt and James Webb, who he considered sons, along with many other nieces and nephews.

Affectionately known as "Papa," Willie was surrounded by many special "daughters" including Angelia Huff, Robin Lakes, Latonya Bryant, Gail Sansbury, Manika Lewis, Carlette Moore, and Angela Workman, and "sons" Charlie Goodwin, Todd Matthews, Willie Bryant and Issac Cooper. He also shared a lasting friendship and brotherly bond with James Williams and Larry Hanson.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to his devoted caregivers-Kim Hall, Benita Turner, Della Rhodes-and Emerald Coast Hospice for their exceptional care and support. A special acknowledgement to Dr. Garry Banks, Niceville, FL, his long-time physician.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Emerald Coast Funeral Home. Friends and loved ones may gather one hour prior to the service to greet the family. The Repass will follow immediately after the memorial service, at Emerald Coast.

Interment with military honors will take place at Barrancas National Cemetery, Pensacola, FL, on October 27, 2025, at 2:30 p.m.

Willie's life and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.