John Carroll Brooks' Obituary
John Carroll Brooks
Chef John was born on 2/25/37 and dealt his last straight flush at home on July 11, 2018. He fought his last battle with cancer, assisted by his loving wife, Barbara, and a most caring staff of angels from Cornerstone Hospice in Lakeland. A very large hug and Hershey’s Chocolate cake was also presented to the staff of the VA Hospital Oncology team-with extra hugs to Dr. Eatrides.
John was predeceased by his father, Herb, mother (Superior) Eleanor, and sister Ginny. His brothers: Richard (wife Francine; children Jen and Tom) and Peter shared each holiday together until Mom retired to Heaven.
There are many rock walls still standing in the Boston Area built by this entrepreneur and John also owned restaurants in Somerville, Massachusetts, Albuquerque, New Mexico, and was a Sales Manager for Metropolitan Ins. Co. Before retiring and moving to Florida with Barbara, he owned a masonry repair business, aided by his best friend, Ray Gerrior.
Ever the traveler, he and Barbara took a special trip to New Orleans after being diagnosed with this fatal disease accompanied with sons-John, Jr. (wife Jeanne; sons Ryan and Sean), Steven, (wife Kim; daughter Zoe and sons, Teddy and Benji) and Richard (wife Micayla; sons Jackson and Evan). He and Barbara also gave love to son Walt (daughter Kim, son Bobby) and daughter Dawn (husband, Mike; daughter, Nicole). An amazing trip with most of the children in attendance was to Mallorca, Spain many years ago.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 17th from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Homes at 1727 Bartow Road, Lakeland. At 10:00 a.m. the Rev. Philip Stevens (also a close neighbor) will give his blessings in the Chapel inside Gentry Morrison. During his U.S. Army service, John served has an Honor Guard at Arlington, Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell where John will be interred at 2:00 p.m.
What’s your fondest memory of John ?
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Share a story where John 's kindness touched your heart.
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