of Little Rock, AR
November 30, 1960 - September 1, 2009
Lt. Col. Gregory L. Brooks, 48, of Little Rock went to be with the Lord, Tuesday, September 1, 2009. He was born in Little Rock on November 30, 1960, a son of Carl L. and Margaret Ann Carlton Brooks. He attended Little Rock Parkview High School and graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1986. He worked for Nabholz Construction Company as a Business Development Officer.
He was a member of Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, Rotary International, and attended Little Rock First Baptist Church. His hobbies included reading, flying, and riding his motorcycle.
He is survived by his wife, Jill LeAnn Brooks; two sons, Matt Brooks and Ben Brooks both of Little Rock; his parents, Carl and Margaret Brooks of Little Rock; a brother, Scott Brooks and his wife, Pam of Conway; a sister, Karen Simpson and her husband, Jim of Little Rock; two nieces, Caitlin Simpson and Allison Brooks; two nephews, Christopher Brooks and Jay McDowell and his wife Michelle.
The funeral service will be at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, September 5, 2009 at Little Rock First Baptist Church with Pastor Mel Amrine officiating. Entombment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 4, at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (501)224-8300.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Church, Feeding the Homeless Under the Bridge Program, 12900 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, Arkansas 72223.
Jill & Family,
One of the most inspiring messgaes I have ever heard came from Greg during the time of closing the 223rd CBCS. His message of courage to the members of the 223rd was to accept the bad news of closing but take aggressive action and move with a positive mind fueled by inspiration and motivation from this temporary setback to something bigger and better. Don't let anger and dissappointment guide your way, he continued.
To the family, reflect on the good memories often. You must have many.
Col Will Allen, 254Combat Comm Group Commander
Jill and Boys,
I knew your father as we were in 4th Sq at the Academy. Always the consummate gentleman; smart, hard working and generous, his smile made him a joy to be aroound.
There is no greater act of love than to give one's life in service to others, be that in a single act of bravery or over a lifetime of sacrifice, dedication and service, each is an equally noble endeavor of which one should be proud. You should be proud of the great man your husband and father was during his time here with us.
Peace be with you,
Seth
To the Brooks family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Mr. and Mrs. Brooks and Karen, he was a special guy, my deepest sympathies. Scott
Greg was a wonderful friend and officer. I met LTC Brooks during the Katrina mission. He was a joy to talk to. He had a smile that would bring joy to all. He will be truly missed. My heart and prayers goes out to his sons. May god bless.
Dear Brooks Family,
You, and especially Matt and Ben, are constantly in our prayers. Matt is a good friend of our son Noah. Matt has been at our home often and we are grateful that Noah is blessed with such a fine friend. I know that the depth of your loss is unfathomable and I pledge that our prayers and friendship and support will continue for a long time to come.
Sincerely, Brent and Linda and Noah Walker
WOW!!!! I am so shocked to hear of this tremendous loss. Words cannot express my disbelief and sadness. I met Greg three years ago as he turned around in front of my house on his FJR motorcycle. I stopped him to ask what kind of bike he was riding and it was as if I had known the guy for years. I was in the market for a bike and because of this chance meeting I bought a Yamaha FJR. I didn't have the opportunity to serve with him but I had many opportunities to ride with him. He was always a joy to spend time with and always had a story to tell or some knowledge he needed to share. It has been a while since I've talked with him. Now, all I can think about is...I won't get to talk with him again until we meet in heaven. I didn't find out about this until today so I missed the funeral.....So Sad. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. He will be missed!!!!!
Our deepest symphathy on your loss of Greg. We thought very highly of him and always enjoyed talking with him when he had Buddy out for a walk. Jill, if you ever need anything, just come across the street and ring our doorbell. I empathize with you and your sons since I lost my father in the same manner God bless you and your family..
My husband, Jerry, and I knew Greg through our son, Lt. Col. Christopher Foreman. We are stunned to hear of his passing. We are thinking of his parents and family at this most difficult time. Take care and have strength. With Love, Jerry and Ann Foreman.
My deepest regrets for your loss. I had the pleasure of working with Greg at Camp Robinson where we spent many weekends together. I think of him whenever I am out riding. He will be missed.
Another Angel called home to be with the Lord. May God bless and give your family peace during this time.
I worked with Greg at Today's Office many years ago. My heart grieves for each of you during this time. Please know that prayers and wonderful thoughts are surrounding you. May God bless each of you.
Jill,
I'm so sorry I couldn't be there to support you this weekend. I was out of town, but my thought and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Sherri
Brooks Family,
I roomed with Karen in college and she always talked of how proud she was of her little brother, Greg. When I met him, I understood why. Even as a teen, it was evident he was a fine young man who already knew his purpose in life. I have lost touch through the years, but it appears he served his country, family, friends, and community in a manner that accomplished his purposes. What a legacy to leave with your family. My heart aches for your loss and may God surround you with His peace and comfort.
Ms. Margaret, I'm sorry for your loss. I am praying for you and your family. You were also so special to my dad (Bill Gregory) when you worked together at the bank., and always so sweet to me.
Brooks Family,
I am deeply sorry for the loss of your son Greg. I considered him a great childhood friend growing up on the same street. I will always remember his smile. I connected with him and his family again several times in the last few years through our kids activities. May God bless and be with each member of your family and his.
Lisa and Scot Worthington
Greg was such a sincere and caring man. He was the kind of person one is lucky to have as a friend. He'll be dearly missed. I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy to his family. He loved you deeply.
LTC Brooks was the last commander I served under at the 223 CBCS. I am deeply saddened to hear of his death. Please know that you have my sincere simpathy in your loss. Let God help you through these extremely tough times. My prayers are with you.
Dear Brooks Family,
I am so saddened by Greg's death. May each of you be blessed as you live with your loss. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Greg was such a treasure for a friend. His friendship will be greatly missed.
Carl, Margaret and family,
I was so saddened to hear that Greg had died. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers. My heart goes out to you. God bless you.
Alene Tripp Ledbetter
Carl, Margaret and your family, I am very sorry of your loss. I know you will miss him greatly. My prayers and sympathy are with you all.
Lena Rennie
Thinking about Greg brings a smile to my soul. We were squadron mates at the Air Force Academy in Delta Tau Deuce. He seemed to always smile about his life. Both the good and the bad, he always seemed to laugh about it. I just heard about your loss, 4 September and am unable to make it to Little Rock, but Brooksie and his family are in my prayers
John Montgomery
Opie and I are thinking of you and your family. You've always been there for us Jill. We are here for you now. Just know you and the boys are in our hearts, minds, and prayers. I will see you when I return from LA
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Please call anytime you need anything. God Bless you and keep you.
His friendship and smile will be carried in our hearts eternally.
Your family are in my heart and prayers.
Stay close to the Lord for all your strength.
He will guide your heart and footsteps.
Psalm 100
My heart goes out to friends and family members of Lt Col Brooks. He was a pleasure to work with, he was genuinely concerned about the welfare of his Airmen, and he was an outstanding officer. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jill, Ben & Matt
I mourn your loss. Greg was truly one of my closest friends. I am sorry I did not spend more time with this special person. I will miss him.
--Rik
My deepest sympathies regarding your loss. My heart goes out to you all.
Lisa Burks c/o
Faulkner County Realty, Inc
Conway
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Greg. May God of hope grant you peace at this time. Greg you are missed.
Michael Upson, RN & Jim G. Aukstuolis, MD and the staff of Arkansas Behavioral Health Care.
Brooks Family:
It was my honor to serve with Greg in the Arkansas National Guard. We first met during our Katrina duty in New Orleans 4 years ago. Greg had a bright intellect and I never had a boring conversation with him. I will always regret not getting to know him better. If I can ever be of service to any of you, please don't hesitate to let me know.
John C. Edwards, State Representative
Dear Brooks Family: I worked closely with Greg for several years in the Air Guard, and have many memories of his calm demeanor, ready smile, and quiet professionalism and competence. He leaves a tremendous void. Rhonda and I send our heartfelt condolences.
Such a shock and the loss of such a wonderful young man!
Carl, Margaret and all of Greg's family-My deepest sympathys and prayers go to you.
May God bless and comfort!!!!!!
Matt, Mitch told us your heart breaking news. Randy did not realize that your Dad and him were fraternity brothers. I wish they could have reconnected thru their sons. Take care of yourself. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, michelle and randy Johnson
Matt,
Your Dad was a wonderful person and he was very proud of you and loved you very much. He would always talk to me about you. I'm here if you ever need me for anything. We enjoyed you coming to our country home for Ellise's 18th bitrhday party and we loved your cooking!
Judd, Barbara, Ellise & Francesca Tolson
I met Mr. Brooks when he first visited St. Mark Church to schedule an appointment with our leaders. He was such a nice and warm person. I really enjoy meeting him and talking with him. My heartfelt prayers are with your family. God Bless You All.
Marcia Hobbs-Receptionist-St. Mark Church
Dale & I want to express our condolences for your loss. We are so sorry, and we want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Margaret and Carl, please let us know if we can help in any way.
Hey Jill , you and the boy are in my thoughts and prayers , may you rest in the peace of God.
Jill and Family-While I have only the pleasure of knowing and working with Jill, I can only imagine how wonderful of a person that Greg was. Know that I am praying for your understanding and healing with Our Father to guide you. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Ben
I'm thinking of you and your family. You are in my prayers.
Lexie
MARGARET AND CARL, WE ARE DEEPLY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. WE WILL KEEP YOU IN OUR PRAYERS. WE LOVE YOU AND CARL.
MARILYN, EVA, AND BONNIE
My heart goes out to your family. I have known LTC Brooks the past 5 years. He was a wonderful man and a fine officer. We, his military family, mourn his passing and are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
Sarah Manning
I am so shocked and disturbed to learn of Greg's passing. He was a fine person, highly intelligent and loyal, and he will be missed. My deepest sympathies to his friends and family.
Jill, Ben, and Matt,
We are so very sorry for your huge loss. It is hard to comprehend such a large part of your life being taken at such a young age. May the love of God, your family, and friends give you some peace. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Gayle, Julie, and Rachel Marcks
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
I'm so very sad for your loss and my prayers are with his family and friends. I just found out a few minutes ago and I'm stunned. It saddens me to know such a great guy has passed. 27 years have passed since he took Summer and I up for a plane ride to the lake before we took off for school. He is truely missed, with love, Chris
My prayer are with the Family. May God's peace keep you.
Jill,
Greg, Chris Foreman, and I all left for the Academy from Little Rock the same day. We got to know each other while we were still seniors going to different high schools in town and kept in touch all the years the Academy. I didn't even know we were both back in Little Rock until my daughter ran into your son at Central High School when they were both in the 10th grade. Of course, I remember Greg well and am shocked by the news. He was such a great guy. I am so,so, sorry for your loss and send my prayers your way. With sincere sympathy, Summer
Jill,
Robert and I were your neighbors over at Cherry Creek. I want to give my condolences to you and the boys at this difficult time. My prayers are with you and the family. You all were a wonderful neighbors. Greg was such a nice guy. With deep sympathy. Deena Fuller
Karen - My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Please know that I and all of your old friends are covering you with our love and our prayers. Please, please let me know when I can help in any way.
Patsy
Jill, Matthew and Ben -- our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We are saddened to hear of Greg's / your dad's passing. Words seem useless at a time like this, so we send up prayers for God's comfort, peace, strength and courage. May he send his healing grace for each of you. We pray also for Greg's parents and family. This is a tough time. Lean on those who offer support and love.
Jill,
I pray that the comforting arms of Our Heavenly Father may shield, cover and bring peace to you, Matt, and Ben during this time. And though this is a deeply personal loss for you and the boys, your friends are experiencing and sharing in this loss with you.
We are so sad with you. Our hearts break for you! Our prayers are being offered steadily. Only the grace of God can see you through. My, My! What a heart break!
Love you guys.
Bro. Don and Nita Moore, former Interim Pastor, Little Rock's First Baptist Church.
My folks are very sorry to learn of Greg's passing.
We are so saddened to hear of your loss. Greg was always the best of friends and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
Greg was a good friend and I will miss him. I pray that as you search for hope, peace and understanding, God will comfort you through his Word and the kindness of others.
Jill, I am pryaing for you and the boys as well as his parents. May you find comfort in knowing that God has placed his loving arms around you.
I worked with Greg at AZ and remember his wonderful smile!! I'm sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all.
I am very sorry for your loss. Your family is in my prayers.
I am deeply saddened for your loss. I have known Greg for many years and he will be deeply missed. I will be praying for your family.
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if we can do anything.
My deepest sympathy to your family.
I was deeply saddened to hear of Lt Col Brooks passing. I worked for Maj Brooks when he was the Commander of the 223rd at Hot Springs. I first met him in New Orleans, LA when we were there for Hurricane Katrina. He was a fine person and will be greatly missed by all. He was always very pleasant and had a huge smile. My prayers are with the family and may God be with you.
Ed Gaston
Dear Matt,
I dont know if you remember me you took my daughter to Prom {Brittany Zakrzewski} I just wanted you to know I will pray for you and your family every night. I am sorry for you loss and your family should know they raised a very kind and caring son.
I WILL BE IN PRAYER FOR THE BROOKS FAMILY.
Carl Lee and Margaret, words cannot describe how my heart and prayers go out to you and your family. I know he will be so dearly missed by all who knew him and worked with him.God bless all of you.
Bea Rowden
Brooks Family, Your family is in our prayers. God bless each of you.
My prayers and thoughts are with you. God's grace is sufficient.
God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow
God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow
My thoughts and prayers are with the Brooks family. Greg was a true gentleman, dedicated Air Force officer, and loyal friend. He will be missed.
Jill -- You and your family are in my prayers. God be with you and surround you with His comfort as only He can do ! Love you!
Jo McCallie
May God provide you with his peace that passes all understanding. I was the 1st Sgt at the 223rd CBCS in Hot Springs.My prayer will be with you and your family.
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you. I worked with Lt. Col Brooks last year at Camp Robinson at the Marksmanship Unit...it is hard to believe he is gone. Please accept my sincere condolences.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Greg. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Dear Family,
Please know that you are in all of our Prayers and we ask God's richest Blessings upon each of you during this time. Hang-in-there and God Bless!
Even though we did not know Greg for very long, we thought very highly of him. He was a great guy to be around. You are all in our prayers.
The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7
I am very sorry to hear of his passing. Lt Col Brooks always had a smile and a pleasant greeting for everyone he encountered. He was both a gentleman and a fine officer - - we shall miss him.
My prayers are with you and your family.
The picture you have posted is so perfect- i will never forget his smile- he was always smiling! Our thoughts and prayers are with you & your family. Our deepest condolenances to you as you grieve the loss of your beloved family member. May God give you the peace and comfort that only He can provide.
We are so saddened and please accept our deepest sympathies. I always enjoyed working with Greg, sharing stories, and going out to lunch. I will never forget his firm handshake and bright smile whenever we met. God Bless you and give Him your trust in this darkest hour.
It is with great sorrow as I offer my sympathy to Greg's family in this difficult time.
My heart and prayers go out to you in this time of sorrow. Lt Col Brooks will be missed in our unit.
My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
My heart goes out to the friends and family. My memories working with you will always stay with us.
Our hearts and prayers are with you. Please let judy or me know if there is anything we can do......Bill Smith