Keith Brooks

Keith Brooks passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025, at the age of 104, just one month before his 105 birthday. His life was about the love of the land and much adventure that took him across the globe and back again.

Keith was born on July 16, 1920, in the small town of Evant, Texas, to Evant and Ruth Brooks. His father owned the local bank, and his mother was active in the Methodist Church and known for her excellent cooking. The town of Evant itself was named after Keith’s great-grandfather, Evan Brooks, who settled in the area in 1879 after moving from Alabama. By adding a “T” to his name, he gave the growing community its unique name. Keith’s grandparents owned a general store and managed farm and ranch land in the area, laying a foundation there.

After graduating from Evant High School in 1937, Keith attended Hardin-Simmons University. He returned home to work at the family bank and marry his high school sweetheart, Juanita Spradley. When World War II began, Keith enlisted in the Army Air Corps and was assigned to the Finance Department at Sheppard Field in Wichita Falls, Texas. He later served overseas in India and China, where he was stationed when the war came to an end.

Upon his return to Texas, Keith chose a different path—leaving banking behind to pursue ranching full-time. He took over the family land outside of Evant and began raising cattle, sheep, and goats. Through years of unpredictable Texas weather, he kept the ranch running with the help of natural spring water that supported his livestock. During this time, he also raised two children, Karon Brooks Wheeless and Tom Brooks.

After the passing of his first wife, Keith was introduced to Joyce through mutual friends. They married on July 6, 1974. With their marriage came two more children, Joyce’s son Corky Cootes, and daughter Heidi Frock, whom Keith helped raise. The family settled in Austin, where Keith enjoyed working as a private investor, while Joyce worked at the public television station and later led international group tours for Bank of America. Together, they traveled the world—leading tour groups and sometimes just for the love of exploration.

In 1991, following Joyce’s retirement, they returned to the ranch in Evant and continued traveling widely. Keith leased grazing rights but continued to care for the land until he developed macular degeneration and lost sight in one eye. On medical advice, he stepped back from physical labor, and in 2014, the couple moved to Sun City, Texas, where they found a welcoming and active community.

Keith remained mentally sharp and physically engaged well in his later years. He enjoyed being outdoors, gardening, researching markets on his computer, spending time with family, and playing 42 dominoes. He was an avid collector of Native American artifacts, shells, butterflies, and artwork from his travels. Over his lifetime, he visited all 50 states, sailed on countless cruises, and explored more countries than he could name.

He often credited his longevity to eating well and staying physically and mentally active.

Keith Brooks lived a long full life and leaves behind a legacy both to the land and the people he loved.

A private family gathering will take place to celebrate his life. The family of Karon & Bill Wheeless, Tom & Cindy Brooks, Heidi & Gary Frock, Corky & Hara Cootes and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren wish to express their appreciation to the Delaney Assisted Living staff and Concho Heart Hospice for providing excellent care. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial to Baylor Scott and White Children’s Hospital in Temple, Texas.