Eddie T. Brooks

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of EDDIE THOMAS BROOKS, who departed this life peacefully on March 20, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland, surrounded by his loving family. He was 87 years old. Born in 1937, Eddie grew up in Clarksville, VA, where he attended local schools and graduated. Seeking to improve his life and serve his country, Eddie enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1959. He rose through the ranks to become a Sergeant before his honorable discharge in 1964. Following his military service, Eddie worked various jobs throughout his life, always dedicated to ensuring a better future for his family. In 1973, Eddie married the love of his life, Creola V. Brooks, a union that spanned 53 years. Together, they raised four children: James (Sonny) Shawn (deceased), Fontella, and Tracinia. Eddie devoted himself to providing for his family, often working tirelessly to meet their needs. Eddie enjoyed a long and rewarding career with the State of Maryland, where he worked as a bus driver for over 30 years. He was affectionately known as the “Big Hog” by those who worked with him, a testament to his larger-than-life presence and the respect he earned from colleagues and passengers alike. Outside of work, Eddie was passionate about cooking, particularly his famous crab cakes, spaghetti, and a special tea known as “Jesus Juice.” He was affectionately known as the “Spaghetti Man” by many. Eddie and Creola’s home was the gathering place for family, MTA employee’s and friends, where cookouts, pig roasts, and weekends filled with laughter and joy were common. His hospitality and warmth were unmatched, and he took great pride in bringing people together. A pillar of the Levindale-Sunset and Action Community Association, Eddie served as President for many years, advocating for the needs of his community with unwavering dedication. He worked closely with Lifebridge Health Board of directors, all communities abroad from North-West Baltimore to East Baltimore, local leaders, including Sharon Green Middleton (TY Sec) and other city officials of the Baltimore City Council, to improve the lives of those in his neighborhood. Eddie’s commitment to his community was profound; he presided over meetings, worked with vendors, and fought for the betterment of his community at every level. His leadership was instrumental in creating a strong sense of unity and support within Levindale-Sunset. Eddie’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived by: his beloved wife, Creola Brooks; his children, Tracinia (Traci) Baltimore, Fontella (Wendy) New Jersey, and James (Sonny) Baltimore; grandchildren, Paul, Rock, Aleciya, Valdez, Christian and Keith; fourteen great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Bridget Smith Baltimore; and godchildren, Danny, Shawnda, Ashawn and Kayla. He was preceded in death by his son Shawn, and his siblings Rosielee Giles, Larry Dawson, John Brooks, James Brooks, Lewis Brooks, and Henry Brooks; and his dear shopping, movie and Golden Corral “Buddy” Adrian. Eddie’s love for his family, his generous spirit, and his enduring kindness have left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His legacy is one of love, laughter, and community. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered. Eddie’s given heart, kindness, generosity, and love for his family and all those lives that he touched will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him forever. Eddie believed in building a legacy not just structures, but also relationships and memories that stand the test of time. May Eddie’s soul rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the many beautiful memories they shared with him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Tributes

Eddie T. Brooks

January 22, 1937 - March 20, 2025