Minister James Edward Brooks Jr.

Minister James Edward Brooks, Jr. was born on March 24, 1955, to Shirley Ann (McGee) Brooks Barbour and the late James Edward Brooks, Sr. In 1970, Pastor Reece Barbour became his stepfather and a spiritual mentor. At an early age, James went to church with his mother, a faithful member of Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church. Under the leadership of Pastor H. M. Crenshaw, he was baptized in 1967. By 1968, at just 14 years old, he spoke to Pastor Crenshaw about his call to preach. Recognizing God’s hand on his life, Pastor Crenshaw mentored him along with Rev. Rube Williams, Sister Vance, Mother Jordan and Sister Wilson, teaching him to study and teach the Bible, prepare sermons and preach with the help of the Holy Spirit. After proving himself capable and committed, he was licensed as a Gospel Minister by Pastor Crenshaw and the Jerusalem M.B. Church Family on January 24, 1971.

Minister James Edward Brooks, Jr. dedicated his life to preaching, teaching, mentoring and leading God’s people. For nearly six decades, he served with humility, courage and a heart for souls. He believed in the power of God’s Word and the importance of equipping the saints for ministry.

Ministry was more than a title—it was his life. He served as a teacher, counselor, ministry developer, outreach worker, marriage officiant, friend, father, forgiver and servant. He baptized, preached, taught, visited, counseled and helped build ministries. He stirred gifts in others and led people to discover their purpose in Christ. He was known for his faithfulness, his wisdom, his compassion and his deep love for God’s people.

Minister James Edward Brooks, Jr. leaves to cherish his memory his beloved mother, Mrs. Shirley Barbour; his sons, James Brooks III, Timothy Gaston, Terrence (Michael) Tucker-Brooks and Timothy Brooks; his daughter, Jamillia Diggons; one brother, Michael DeVault; his sisters, Lisa, Sabrina, Debrah DeVault and Annette (Nick) Stone; his aunts, Rosemary McGee and Minnie McGee; his uncle, Tyreese McGee; and 16 grandchildren; along with his extended family, church family, friends, and the many lives he touched through his years of Christian ministry and service.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Edward Brooks, Sr.; his stepfather, Rev. Reece Barbour; and his beloved daughter, Victoria “Pumpkin” Gaston.

He fought the good fight. He finished his course. He kept the faith. He poured into generations and left a spiritual heritage that will continue to impact lives for years to come.