John Paul Brooks, 73, of Howard passed away on Tuesday morning, March 31, 2026 at home surrounded by family. He was born on November 21, 1952 in Mount Vernon to the late Paul D. Brooks and Arla “Jeanine” Porter Curtis. He was a graduate of Mount Vernon High School in 1971.
John was a member of the Mount Vernon Baptist Temple. In years past, he was dedicated to youth ministry and spent countless hours in Bible study and trips to Camp Victory.
Before his health issues worsened, John was the Assistant Manager for several area drug stores. He enjoyed coin and sports card collecting, playing the guitar, writing poetry and songs, and he was a huge history buff. He was always reading and had a fresh stack of books next to his chair. He also could tell you what was coming up on the next Wrestlemania. His dogs, beloved Boxers, always held a close place in his heart.
Because of John’s health, he was the stay at home Dad. He was the caregiver of the house and saw that everyone’s needs were met, whether it was a ride to work, going to the zoo, playing at the pool, helping with homework or fixing the evening meals. John was always a friend to those in need and would do anything he could to be there when it mattered most. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor and his unwavering faith.
John is survived by his wife, Barbara (Odenweller) Brooks whom he married on October 16, 1976; daughter, Laura (Charles) Eichenlaub of Howard; grandchildren, Adeline, Avery and Axton; sisters, Lisa (Steve) Hinton of Brandon and Wendy (Bob) Marsell of Mount Vernon; brother, Mike (Rhonda) Brooks of Mount Vernon; his step mother, Sue Brooks of Mansfield; step sister, Traci Curtis of Lexington; step brother, Eric Curtis of Nevada; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Brooks; and his stepfather, John Curtis.
The family will have a celebration of life service at a later date. From a favorite old gospel song, “I’ll see you in the morning”.
To share a memory or send the family an expression of sympathy visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
The Snyder Funeral Homes, Dowds Chapel, is honored to serve the family of John Paul Brooks.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Dowds Chapel
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com