James A. Brooks passed away on March 19, 2025 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center. He was 66. Born in Beacon, NY on June 10, 1958, he was the son of the late William D. Brooks Sr. and H. Irene (Rosenkranz) Brooks. James married his beloved wife Penny B. (Glass) Brooks on October 29, 1983. Penny survives at home.

James worked as a mechanic for many years and that was his true passion. He was also a volunteer firefighter for the Rombout Fire Department. James was raised with the value of always helping your fellow man. He wouldn't wait to be asked. He would always jump in and help whoever was in need.

In his free time, he greatly enjoyed rebuilding car engines, mowing his many acres of lawn in different designs, collecting antiques, watching old movies and tv shows such as the Three Stooges, and he loved making friends with new people.

In addition to his wife Penny Brooks, he is survived by his son James D. Brooks; his daughter-in-law Desiree Cox of Texas; his grandchildren: Kayson and Olivia; his brothers W. David Brooks and his wife Marta of Florida, Leonard Brooks and his wife Irene of NY; his sister Pamela I. Caldwell and husband Gary Sr. of NY; his sister Debra A. Brestovansky of NY; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and friends.

In addition to his parents, James was predeceased by his beloved son Edward "Teddy" Cox, and by his brother Joseph A. Brooks.

A Celebration of Life will be held by the family at a later date.

Please consider a donation in memory of James to the American Burn Association www.ameriburn.org