John E. Brooks

John Eric Brooks was born the only child to Brenda Elizabeth Brooks on March 24th, 1964, in New York, NY. The two later relocated to Albany, NY in 1972. While growing up on South Pearl St. *SP4L* John developed his love of hip hop, fashion and created lifelong friendships. John attended Albany public schools before graduating from Albany High School in 1981. He then attended Hudson Valley Community College. During his youth John held many jobs in his community, such as: lifeguarding at Lincoln pool, food serves at Albany Med and with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, before starting the academy with NYS Department of Corrections in 1988.

In August 1988, he transferred to his career home, Bedford Hills Correctional Facility. John gained great knowledge of department operations and was very active in many special units. He joined CERT from 1996-2006. In 1996, he became the Disciplinary Officer until he was promoted to Sergeant in 2004.

During his time at Bedford Hills, he met his beloved partner Sadie Martin and in 1991 they welcomed their only child, Erica Shante Brooks. The two remained great friends thought the years and continued to love and co-grandparent their only grandchild Isaiah Eric Brooks until the time of John’s passing. John was a devoted and loving father. Being a grandparent was one of his greatest joys.

In 2009, John had a massive stroke, alternately causing his medical retirement from NYSDOCCS with 22 years on the job. Against the odds John learned to walk, talk, and even drive again after his stroke. John enjoyed sports (devoted Knicks fan!) He loved to travel, read the newspaper and hanging out with family and friends. John “JB” Brooks was a loving, son, father, grandfather and a loyal friend. He was loved dearly, and he will truly be missed.

He is preceded in death by his mother Brenda Elizabeth Brooks. To forever cherish his memory, he leaves: daughter Erica Shante Brooks, grandson Isaiah Eric Brooks. Aunt Joan Marbury, cousins Denise Marbury and Michele (Ronald) Jones. As well as lifelong friends (Brothers) Orville (Carra) Abrahams and June Hardy. Godchildren/ nieces and nephews, Justin Jones, Jace Jones, Jamarrah Poole (daughter Jade), Khaleed Abrahams and Karina Abrahams. This in addition to a host of cousins, Correctional family and good friends, too numerous to name.

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