James Erskine Brooks

James (Jim) Brooks, lovingly known as “Pockets” to many, of Oxford passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025. Born on June 11, 1941 in Waynesboro, Virginia, “Pockets” lived a life full of laughter, fun and had a deep love for his family, friends and his country, as a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

His larger-than-life personality, warm heart and easy smile made him beloved by all who knew him. Jim had a deep love for racing -- whether at the dirt tack or NASCAR track. When he wasn’t relaxing, he was busy working out in his gym or working on a vehicle in his building with the same hands-on passion that defined his life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, E.H. & Eliza Brooks; sister Jean Henderson; in-laws Wilber & Oma Woodward.

Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ann; children, Carin (Bryan) Rutledge, Cale (Pam) Brooks; sister, Lynda (Gary) Sheffer; brother-in-law’s, Marvin Henderson, Charles (Alexis) Woodward; sister-in-law, Elsie Blair; grandchildren, Hannah & Travis, Andrew & Marissa, Nicholas, Amber, Ansley & Miller, Gracie, Tanner, Megan & Andrew; great-grandchildren, Michael, James, McKinsley, Kohen, Madalynn, Noemy, Gabriel, Julieth, JJ, Benji, Cade, Jillian, Sutton, Elsie, Birdy, Indy, Thorin; numerous nieces and nephews.

His love for his family and friends will live on in the memories he helped create and the hearts he touched. He loved big, lived fully and will be deeply missed.

A Memorial Service for Jim will be held from 1:00pm until 3:00pm, Saturday, July 19, 2025, at J.C. Harwell & Son Funeral Home. 

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