Joseph “Gary” Brooks, age 78, of Chatham, Illinois, passed away on September 20, 2026.

Born November 21, 1947, in Rosiclare, Illinois, Gary was the son of Joseph Charles Brooks and Irene (Brinkley) Brooks.

Gary proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1968 as a Sergeant (E-5), serving in Augsburg, Germany, and was honorably discharged.

After his military service, he worked in the Sporting Goods Department at Black’s Hardware, Van Pickerill & Sons, and later retired after approximately 20 years with the State of Illinois.

Gary enjoyed baseball and bowling and was inducted into the Bowling Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his son, Jason (Leah) Brooks; daughter, Angela Jimerson; grandchildren, Alyssa (Cody) Baltusevich, Jaylee Brooks, and Mikey Jimerson.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Frederick Brooks; first wife, Ann Marie Brooks; parents, Joseph Charles Brooks and Irene (Brinkley) Brooks; sister, Joyce Faye Owens; and brother, Jerry Ray Brooks.

In accordance with Gary’s wishes, cremation will take place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.