Condolences

• 05/28/2026

  Ally Legare

  It is hard to put into words the impact Brooks had on my life. My mother married him when I was 3 years old. To put it lightly, I was not the easiest toddler. Regardless of that, Brooks didn't just choose to marry my mom... he chose to also become a father to my sister and me. He actually bought us little wedding bands too. Throughout my childhood, teens and adulthood, he showed me nothing but undeniable love, loyalty and support. There wasn't a single game, school event, accomplishment or milestone he missed. When life got hard, he was there without question. After my first high school break up, it was him that took me to my favorite restaurants just so I'd eat. When I was navigating a nasty divorce, him and my mom took me and my son into their homes and put their lives on hold immediately. He celebrated my highs and was right by my side during the lowest lows. Brooks was the dad that allowed me to live and learn without hovering, but he was there no matter how big of a mistake I made. He proved beyond measure that you don't have to share DNA to be a real parent. He chose us... he chose me. I will forever be grateful for the millions of laughs, memories and love he brought into my life as far back as I can remember. I'm proud to call him my dad and I'm honored to have had him in my life for the last 36 years.

• 05/28/2026

  Tim Hester

  Got to know Brooks just out of high school. We were in the same class but became friends through other friends when high school ended. Brooks loved to party and laugh. Loved loud music and good times. When he went to JMU he got into camping in the GW National forest. He got myself and several friends involved and over the years we had many camping trips. We had a favorite spot. This spot was known for bugs and rain and huge fires. No living creature would venture into this campsite. It was known as Forbidden Valley. Brooks had a fondness for throwing electronics into the fire reducing it to molten slag. Thus he became known up and down the Shenandoah Valley as Uncle Slaggy. His legend will live on in our memories. I will miss him and remember him fondly.

• 05/28/2026

  Gayle Burnett

  Brooks always wore a smile so easily and always made me laugh. We will miss you forever.

• 

  05/27/2026

  Stephen, Linda, and David Eason

  Lisa, Melissa, Ally, and Lauren, I am so sorry to hear about Brooks, and wanted to send my condolences to all of you. You daughters won't remember me, as you were likely too small. But Brooks was most definitely one of a kind and I'll always remember him when we first met; he was cursing at a stuck faucet on the side of his Portsmouth house. When he saw me we had a great laugh. You guys will be in my prayers.

• 05/27/2026

  Michael W Hughes

  Ann and fàmily, I am saddened to learn of Brooks passing. I still have fond memories of him in band class. My sincere condolences to the family. May he rest in peace. Michael W Hughes. WWHS 70

• 

  05/26/2026

  Christi Holden

  Brooks was my stepdad and I can say it was the only time in my childhood I lived in a stable home. Hadn't seen him in years but wanted to say thank you and to give honor where honor is due.