October 17, 1948 – May 5, 2022
Mr. Leon E. Brooks, Sr., a lifelong resident of Petersburg, Virginia, died suddenly on Thursday, May 5, 2022. On October 17, 1948, Leon was born in Petersburg, Virginia, to Joseph and Mary Brooks. He joined Zion Baptist Church at an early age. In 1968, he graduated from Peabody High School and shortly thereafter married Monica on May 24, 1969. Leon was a Military Police Officer in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1974.
Upon completing his military career he returned home as a civilian and started his studies at John Tyler Community College, receiving his Associate of Applied Science degree in 1979. After completing his degree, he became employed at Brown & Williamson Tobacco Company until 1985. Leon would finish his civilian career and retire from Central State Hospital Forensic Unit after 31 years of service.
His love for working and being around people did not stop him from working part-time at Gateway Homes in Chesterfield, VA; where he worked until his passing. He also enjoyed being outside in the yard; as he would say “getting his yard straight”. He was a car enthusiast and loved playing bid whist with his longtime friends.
Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary Brooks; sisters, Eloise Brooks Perkins and JoAnn Brooks Short. Leaving to cherish his memories: his loyal wife of 52 years, Monica; sons, Timothy Branch and Leon E. Brooks, Jr. and daughter, Tiffany Mitchell (James); brothers, Charles Brooks (Janina), Dennis Brooks and Anthony Brooks (Sheila); brother-in-law, Calvin Epps; sister,Joan Bond (Fred); sisters-in-law, Beverly E. Barber and Brenda Epps; devoted nephew, Matthew Perkins; devoted friends, Ronald Branch, Lonnie Battle, and Ben Bonner; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.
Services will be held 2:00 P.M., Saturday, May 14, 2022 at Tabernacle Baptist Church 418 Halifax Street, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Robert A. Diggs, Sr., Pastor, and Rev. Dr. Andrew J. White, Sr., eulogist. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery.