Obituary of Coley Phillip Brooks

Coley Phillip Brooks - Coley, 84 passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Gulfside Healthcare Services on [date]. Phil was born on March 18, 1938, in Coosa County, Alabama. He was the first of eight children born to his parents Coley and Mary Love Brooks. Coley accepted Jesus Christ at an early age at Peace and Goodwill Baptist Church in Cottage Grove, Alabama.

After attending J.D. Thompson High School, Coley enlisted into the United States Air Force and received his G.E.D. in 1958.  He was assigned to the Second Supply Squad SAC (AF) - as a Warehouse Specialist (NR) and was deployed to both Greenland and Iceland.  Coley served from July 1956 to July 1960 and was honorably discharged. Coley was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and earned the Air Force Longevity Service Award. Afterwards, Coley went on to serve in the National Reserve from July 1960 – July 1962.

 Coley relocated to Corona, New York. He met the love of his life and was united in holy matrimony to Ruth Ann Smith on May 28, 1970. This union of 52 years was blessed by two children – Trinaka and LeRonn.

During his time in New York, Coley worked for the United States Postal Service for 34 years before his retirement.

Coley enjoyed traveling with his wife, siblings and friends. He traveled the Caribbean Islands and to many countries, including France, Spain, Italy, Monaco and Portugal.

Coley truly enjoyed playing the card game Bid Whist and loved even more letting everyone know when he won. He was an avid reader and lover of the outdoors, enjoying his daily long walks and bike rides with his Love, Ruth.

Coley and Ruth relocated to Florida in 2005 and settled in Wesley Chapel. They united with Bible Based Church of Temple Terrace, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Earl B. Mason Sr.

Family and friends will remember Coley as a kind, calm gentleman who had a subtle sense of humor and who loved his entire family. Ruth, Trinaka and LeRonn will remember him as a devoted husband, father and family man.

Coley was preceded in death by both parents, and siblings Mary Nell Brooks and John Clayton Brooks. He leaves memories to be cherished by his wife Ruth, two children Trinaka and LeRonn, siblings Lilli Thomas, Thomas Brooks (Kathy), Wesley Brooks (Carol), Sylvania Russell (Bill), Larry Brooks, one niece (one niece Sharon Thomas preceded him in death) and seven nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.