James Henry Brooks

James Henry Brooks

December 10, 1940 - August 11, 2025

James Henry Brooks, a dual resident of Daytona Beach, Florida, and Rochester, New York, passed away on Monday, August 11, 2025, in Rochester, New York, at the age of 84.

James Henry was laid to rest on August 22, 2025, in Rochester, New York. On October 19, 2025, a Memorial Service to celebrate his life will be held in Daytona Beach, Florida. 

James Henry Brooks was born on December 10, 1940, in Daytona Beach, Florida to Mr. James Henry Brooks Sr. and Alberta McDowell Davis. At an early age James Henry accepted Christ and joined Mt. Mission Missionary Baptist Church. He attended Bonner Elementary and Campbell High School graduating with the Class of 1961. He was affectionately known to many as Brooks, Jim, or Junior.

James Henry relocated to Rochester, New York, in 1967 and began working at Beechnut Baby Food before starting a long career at Kodak in 1971. A lover of fellowship and laughter, he joined the Kodak Bowling League and in 1995 became one of the proud founding members of the Highway Rollers Motorcycle Club. Fishing, traveling, playing cards, cheering for sports and collecting antiques always kept him surrounded by joy and adventure.

In 1994, James introduced roasted and boiled peanuts to his community in Rochester, New York. He was more than just a familiar face in the neighborhood; he was a part of its heart. His peanuts came with a smile, a word of encouragement, and a reminder that kindness still existed. Rain or shine, James stood faithfully in service to his community.

James Henry was a dual resident of New York and Florida, spending summer months in Rochester and winter months in Daytona Beach. Above all, James Henry loved God, and he lived out his faith daily with gratitude and strength as a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor James Edwards Jr. The words of Psalm 23 carried him through life's journey, guiding him to trust God's promises.

Left to cherish his memory are two sons: Calvin Henry of Virginia and Marcus Henry of Rochester, New York; four daughters: Karen Taylor of Lakeland, Florida, Alberta Brady, Teanna Mosley and Janice Brady all of Rochester, New York; two brothers: Elder James Brooks (Jessie) of Dupont, Georgia and Arnold Frank Davis of New York City, New York; one sister Helen Brooks-Tillman of Daytona Beach, Florda; his fiancé Laura Culbreath of Miami, Florida; a special cousin Emma Price of Daytona Beach, Florida; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.   

The Staff at Alonia's Cremation & Urns extends our deepest condolences and prayers to the family of Mr. Brooks.

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