Life’s Reflections
Earl Houston Brooks entered this world on December 4, 1946, in Eads, Tennessee, born to the late Willie Franklin Brooks, Sr., and Eva Mae Wash Brooks. The third of seven children, Earl grew up surrounded by the love, laughter, and lively energy of a big family.
Earl accepted Christ at an early age at Gray’s Creek Church under the leadership of Rev. E.V. Jones. His faith remained a steady foundation throughout his life. He began his education at Eads Elementary School, but at just five years old, a debilitating bone disease required him to be homeschooled. Earl never allowed this challenge to dim his determination. He later attended Mt. Pisgah High School, where he proudly earned his diploma in 1965 and even played basketball. His pursuit of learning continued with three years of higher education at Tennessee State University and Rust College.
On May 10, 1980, Earl was united in holy matrimony to Gladys Walker Brooks of Moscow, Tennessee. Together they built a beautiful life, sharing 46 years of love, partnership, and unwavering devotion.
Earl dedicated 28 years of service to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, working as a Deputy Sheriff from 1970 until his retirement in 1998. His commitment to protecting and serving his community was matched only by the kindness he showed to everyone he encountered. After retiring, Earl stayed activeworking at Target, chauffeuring his beloved granddaughters, and caring tenderly for his mother.
A man of many talents and simple joys, Earl loved listening to music, fishing, refinishing furniture, and making sure every yard he touched looked its best. Sundays were reserved for laughter-especially the kind he shared with his sisters, who could always count on his dry, quick-witted humor. And although he left the courtroom behind when he retired, he never left his favorite judges: Judge Judy, Judge Mathis, and Judge Joe Brown remained part of his daily routine.
Earl’s humble spirit, gentle heart, and sharp humor made him unforgettable. He lived with grace, gave generously, and loved deeply.
On July 25, 2026, Earl completed his earthly journey peacefully, surrounded by family and loved ones. He leaves behind cherished memories and a legacy of love.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Gladys Walker Brooks; his daughter, Chanda Brooks (Cordova, TN) (from a previous marrage); and his treasured granddaughters, Teri and Natalia Brooks of Cordova, TN. He is also survived by five sisters-Joyce Branch (Memphis, TN), Sylvia Brooks (Cordova, TN), Brenda Brooks (Cordova, TN), Felecia Brooks (Arlington, TN), and Hazel Young (Memphis, TN); one brother, Willie Franklin Brooks, Jr. (Fort Washington, MD); one aunt, Janette Wash (Oakland, TN); six sistersin-law-Dorothy (Ernest) James (Augusta, GA), Virginia Martin (LaVergne, TN), Angie (Charles) Myles (Germantown, TN), Letha (Gregory) Sanders (Collierville, TN), Carrie Harper (Memphis, TN), and Peggy (Maurice) Norman (Conyers, GA); four brothers-in-law-Ollie Ray (Evelyn) Walker, Sr. (Memphis, TN), Oscar Walker (Augusta, GA), Tony (Sabrina) Walker (Memphis, TN), and John (Alfreida) Walker (Memphis, TN); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his sisters; Sheila Brooks, Gladys Coins, and Lucille Givan.
Earl’s life was a testament to resilience, service, humor, and love. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.
Celebration of Life
Saturday, August 1, 2026
3:00 P.M.
Gray’s Creek Church
3141 Inglewood Place • Arlington, Tennessee 38002
Reverend Patrick Tucker, Eulogist
Processional..............The Family of Mr. Earl Houston Brooks
Musical Selection...........................................................Choir
Scripture Readings:
The Old Testament...........................Rev. Wiley Harris
The New Testament.................Dr. Donald R. Ester, Sr.
Prayer.........................................Min. Timothy Strickland, Sr.
Musical Selection...........................................................Choir
Expressions:
(Respectfully, Two Minutes Please)
Jean Granberry - Classmate
Clyde Brooks - Cousin
Angie Myles - Sister-in-Law
Teri & Natalia Brooks - Grandaughters
Chanda Brooks - Daughter
Words of Comfort.....................................Rev. Herbert Brooks
Musical Selection....................................Mrs. Alfreida Walker
Family Acknowledgements......................Ms. Velencia Harris
Eulogy.......................................................Rev. Patrick Tucker
Recessional
“Love is Forever, not just all your Life.” - Felecia
~Acknowledgements ~
On behalf of our entire family, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you for being with us today as we celebrate the life of Earl Houston Brooks. Your presence, kind words, prayers, and support have brought us comfort during this difficult time. Whether you traveled far, sent your condolences, or simply held us in your thoughts – we are deeply grateful. As we move forward with his memory in our hearts, we are reminded that love never truly fades. Thank you for honoring him with us.
Lorenzo Brooks
Marvin Anderson, Sr.
Eddie
Jimmy Stiger
Marcus Branch Melvin
Clyde Brooks, Jr. Norris
Chuckie Walker
Gregory
Sean Walker Charles
