David Brooks

David Brooks, 54, of Alma died Saturday May 4, 2013 at his home. David was born in Fort Smith on August 24, 1958, to the late Wanda and Eldon Brooks and was a graduate of Van Buren High School, class of 1976. He began his music career in high school as an All-State musician. David graduated from the University of Arkansas where he was a member of the Symphonic Band, Razorback Marching Band, and Hog Wild band. He was a former band director and an avid music lover who enjoyed sharing music with others. He played in numerous groups at various times including the Fort Smith Symphony, Mr. Cabbagehead and the Screaming Radishes, the Ozark Mountains Brass Band, the Arkansas Winds, and the Western Arkansas Community Band. It was in the Western Arkansas Community Band that he met Beth, whom he married in 1985. He was so excited when his daughter, Alyson, was born, and was a devoted father. He inspired many with his playing ability and taught countless students during his teaching career. David enjoyed helping others, and he was a Red Cross volunteer and active in the Knights of Columbus and the Fort Smith Huntington’s Disease Support group before he became ill. He is survived by his wife, Beth; one daughter, Alyson Brooks of Irving, Texas and her fiancé William Barrow, also of Irving, TX; and numerous nieces and nephews who loved him greatly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon and Wanda Brooks; and two brothers, Don Brooks and Randy Brooks. Rosary will be 7:00 PM Wednesday, May 8, 2013, at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday May 9, 2013 at Saint Boniface Catholic Church with burial at Holy Cross Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith. Pallbearers will be Randy Rauh, David Kirkley, Boyce Wofford, Kenny Kaelin, Jeff Hines and John Sharum. The family will visit with friends Wednesday evening, May 8, 2012, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Edwards Funeral Home. Memorial gifts can be made to St. Boniface Catholic School, 201 N. 19th St., Fort Smith, AR 72901, Fountain of Youth Adult Day Center, 2409 S. 56th St, Fort Smith, AR 72903, or Hereditary Neurological Disease Centre, Inc. 9340 East Central, Suite L, Wichita, KS 67206. To place online tributes please visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.