Jerome Donald Brooks

Jerome Donald Brooks, 85, passed away April 02, 2023 at The Pillars in Biloxi, MS. He was born on March 10, 1938 in Brooklyn, NY, the second of four children to parents James and Marion Brooks. He grew up there in Brooklyn and enjoyed running track, playing basketball, and photography. Jerry, as he was known by those closest to him, attended school in Brooklyn and went to work. Jerry became a professional photographer, worked as a case manager in the Social Security Administration, and spent some time in human resources for District Council 37 in New York, before his retirement in 2002. He actually has a photograph of George Willig's climbing of the World Trade Center in 1977, which is in the Guinness Books of World Records. Jerry wanted himself an Asian braide, so he placed an ad in a newspaper in Sri Lanka in the 80s. Over a hundred women responded, and Jerry chose Neena Jayasuriya from the group. He went to Sri Lanka and met Neena and her family. They were married in December 1985, and he had to return home to work. Neena followed three months later and they made their home in Brooklyn. After his retirement, they moved to Florida, and finally to South Mississippi, where they had lived since 2010. Jerry is remembered as a fun-loving, adventurous guy. He enjoyed music and dancing, teaching Neena and her sisters in Canada how to cut a rug. Jerry was a loving husband that provided for and protected Neena over the 38 years they were together. To relax, Jerry enjoyed going to the casinos for dinner and to play the slots. He will be forever missed by all who knew and loved him. Jerry was preceded by his parents, Jim and Marion Brooks, and his brother James Brooks, Jr. Left to cherish his memories are: his loving wife, Neena Brooks (Jayasuriya); his two sisters: Delores Peterson and Carol Brooks, both of Nevada, along with several extended family and many friends. Jerry's final wishes were to be cremated, which his family is honoring. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Brooks family in their time of need and asks that you remember them in your thoughts and prayers through the days ahead.