James Brooks

Rich in love and laughter, James Brooks brightened the lives of those around him in ways big and small. He found great joy and contentment in the simple things, like time spent with loved ones. Deeply devoted to his family, James was both a fierce protector and hardworking provider for those who depended on him. His generosity was limitless, and his steadfast faith was exemplified by his constant willingness to go above and beyond to serve others. Dearly missed, James will be forever loved, and his memory will be cherished for many generations to come.

The early 1960s are remembered as some of the most exciting years to be living in the United States of America. The historical civil rights movement was underway, and the young JFK was elected president in the very beginning of the decade. The world of pop culture was booming, seeing the surging popularity of iconic musical artists including The Beatles and The Beach Boys. It was during this influential time that James Earl made his entrance into the world. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on April 24, 1961, he was raised by his loving parents, Mary and Willie Brooks.

James’ formative years were spent in the family home on Knapp Street on the Northeast side of Grand Rapids. He became an older brother to his three younger siblings, Willie, Lachelle, and Pamela. James was a typical boy of his generation in many ways, and he loved being outside and playing around the neighborhood with friends. He spent many hours learning to garden with his father. The family enjoyed bowling together as well. James grew up very close with his extended family, including aunts, uncles, and cousins. Thanks to this example, he would carry the importance of family close to his heart for the rest of his life.

Throughout his childhood, James attended local schools, including Huff Elementary and Northeast Middle. He moved on to finish his education at Central High School, where he excelled as a track athlete. James was quite social and enjoyed hanging out with friends. He balanced his studies and social life with a job at Bergsma Brothers Furniture. After graduating from Central High, James eventually found employment in the kitchen at the Grand Rapids Press Club, where he enjoyed working until it closed down. He then followed his passion for cooking to his longtime cooking job at The Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters. Over the span of his career there, James worked many second shifts and loved having his Thursdays off for many years.

One memorable moment that would change James’ life forever unfolded when he was introduced to the young woman who would soon capture his heart. Her name was Kimberly Adkinson, and she was a friend of his sister’s. James caught Kim’s eye immediately, and it was only a matter of time before he came knocking on her door. The two enjoyed their first date grilling at James’ home on the Fourth of July in 1990. Sparks flew between them, and a whirlwind romance blossomed. As they say, the rest was history. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives as husband and wife, James and Kim were married on April 11, 1992, at Grace Pentecostal Church of God in Christ.

For their first few years together, James and Kim lived in various apartments. They were able to settle into their first house on Clancy before moving to their longtime home on Parklane. James took great pride in becoming a homeowner, and he took meticulous care of his house, yard, and gardens. Caring for his vegetables and flowers was one of James’ favorite ways to spend his time. Their Parklane home also had a pool in the backyard, which James maintained immaculately. He was very handy and could fix just about anything.

James and Kim were overjoyed to welcome their three precious daughters, Natasha, Kendra, and Jaymie, into their hearts and home. His kids were truly the focus of his life. James thrived in his role as a father, and though he could be strict with his rules, softened with time and savored every moment he was able to spend with his family. He took his duty as their protector very seriously, checking the locks and smoke detectors every night. Later in life, James was thrilled to become a grandfather to his many grandchildren as well. Watching his family flourish brought him so much pride and joy.

When he wasn’t working, James enjoyed being at home. He loved cars and carefully maintained his prized 1978 Cadillac Deville and Chrysler 300. Cooking was not only one of James’ favorite hobbies but also one way he showed his love to those around him. Some of his home cooked meals included tuna casserole, burritos, and tater tot casserole, but he also enjoyed grilling and made an amazing salsa from his garden vegetables. James liked watching the news, weather, and movies on the TV. His favorite music came from James Brown.

Those who knew James can attest to the unwavering strength of his faith, especially in recent years. He and Kim frequently attended and watched services at Resurrection Life Church, growing in their faith. Above all of the other joys of life, James loved spending his time surrounded by his friends and family. Even as his health declined, he was so grateful for the blessings of walking his daughters down the aisle and meeting his grandchildren.

When reflecting on the overflowing life of James Brooks, it is easy to admire a man who radiated such kindness and warmth. A dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, his family was undoubtedly his greatest treasure, and his contagious laughter and insatiable zest for life could be felt by all those near. Although he is already so greatly missed, James leaves behind a priceless legacy of compassion and determination that his loved ones will be proud to carry on in his footsteps.

James Earl Brooks, age 65 of Grand Rapids, passed away at his beloved home on April 30, 2026. James is survived by his wife, Kimberly; their daughters Natasha (Dwante) Meux, Kendra Adkinson, Jaymie (Jordan) Gorshe; grandchildren McKinley, Dwante Jr., DeAunjanae, Ayden, Elijah, Jordan Jr. and Gianna; mother, Mary Saxton; brother, Willie (Liz) Brooks Jr; sisters: Lachelle Brooks and Pamela Brooks; special sister-in-law, Cynthia Gill, as well as numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his father, Willie Brooks; birth father, Robert Walker; and grandson DaeQuan.

His funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Lamb of God Church. Friends are invited to visit with his family on Wednesday from 5-7 PM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield Ave NE, and on Thursday at the church beginning at 10 AM. Interment in Fairplains Cemetery

To read more about James, to share a memory or photo, or to sign his guestbook, visit www.heritagelifestory.com.