Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. Mr. Brooks will then be transferred to Mansfield, where friends may call Monday one hour prior to the noon funeral service at Community Temple Church of God in Christ. Burial in Mansfield Cemetery will follow, with military rites rendered by the U.S. Army Military Honors. Williams Funeral Service, Mansfield, will handle the Ohio arrangements.

He was born June 10, 1941, in Mound Bayou, Miss., to Jessie and Mary (Wilson) Brooks. He married Minnette Davis on Jan. 19, 1980, in Elkhart.

She survives along with two sons, Roy L. Truitt of Elkhart and Eddie Williams of Canton, Ohio; one daughter, Jessie M. (Eric James) Brooks of Canton; four grandchildren; one sister, Christine Valdry of Mansfield, Ohio; and three brothers, Watt (Louise) Selmon and Bill and Frank Selmon, all of Mansfield.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Johnnie Mae Watkins.

Mr. Brooks worked at Manchester Tank Co., Elkhart, for many years until his health required early retirement in January 2008. He enjoyed all kinds of sports, especially billiards and football, barbecuing and spending time with his family and friends. He was known for his big smile and laugh.

He was a U.S. Army Vietnam War veteran who served with the 2nd Armored Division as an armorer on a tank crew.

Memorials may be given to the charity of the donor's choice. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.