I recently found out that Mr. Brooks passed away. I worked at the NC Associaation of CPAs a few years back, and worked with Mr. Brooks when both the NC State Board of CPA Examiners and the NCACPA would gather together for joint meetings and NCACPA events. He was a kind and gentle man, who was a true soul. A man of his word who respected others. It was my pleasure to work with him.  He will be missed.

Bob and I worked together in the years I was at NCACPA. Bob and I didn't always agree, but I understood why every time. We enjoyed each other's company especially when we traveled to our chapters to do a joint presentation. I really enjoyed the barbeque places he introduced me to. He was a hard worker and lead the State Board to a position of respect. Everyone in the accounting profession knew of Bob Brooks. RIP, Bob

Jim Ahler

Bob was a tireless advocate for the accounting profession and a great friend to the Dept of Accounting at NC State. We will miss his friendship and leadership.

Bob was one of our great PTA PRESIDENTS  while I was Principal of Fred A. Olds Elementary.  He was very instrumental in organizing FAO WEEK.  He became and was a great friend of mine.  May God Continue to Bless and bring Peace to his family.  Sincerely, Frank Koontz

For most of the 35 years at the CPA Board, Bob was the  central point of connection linking the staffs and Board members of more than fifty boards with each other, raising the alarm against bad ideas likely to weaken public protection from the greedy or unscrupulous few in every occupation and profession. As a lawyer with the same goals Bob was my trusted energetic and determined colleague. It was clear when he stepped down, and well before his death that there would be no replacement and no equal.

Bob was a wonderful man!  Always offering help and happiness to us Kiwanians.  

I have been missing and will continue to miss his presence. 

It was a great privilege to have known Bob Brooks!

I can honestly say that working with Bob and the Board the last ten years of my career was by far my most rewarding experience.  Bob and I were not only co-workers but also close friends that enjoyed working together.  I have never known a professional more dedicated to their job than Bob. Thanks to Bob we accomplished a lot together and had fun during the process. 
Sarah and I had so much fun traveling to NASBA conferences with Bob and Cammie.  We never had to worry about finding a great place to eat no matter where we were because Bob was our number one travel agent and chauffeur.  
Bob was well respected both within the state and nationally for his contributions and service. 

We will miss you “Bud”
In Christ. 



Bob Brooks was an iconic member of the NBHS Class of 67’, surpassed only by his generous contributions to his family, profession, NCSU alma mater, and Raleigh and Statewide communities. Above all, his quick wit and dry humor left a special story with each of us who knew and admired him. Even Johnny Mac Alexander (BHS 67’) would cede first place to Bob  for the ‘gift of the quip’ prize. He will be missed by many but never forgotten.

I first met Bob when I joined the Raleigh Jaycees in late 1978.  He was passionate about the Jaycees and life in general.  Later in life I returned to NCSU and completed the requirements to become a CPA  and Bob ironically had become the top dog for the NC State Board of CPA Examiners.  He loved life and I am fortunate to have known him.

Bob and I were working colleagues for about 25 years while I worked for the AICPA in Continuing Professional Education and with NASBA when I was able to serve boards of accountancy. He often called me on the phone or questioned me at conferences. I found him to be fair, sincere, and always striving for quality. We often times agreed and as many times disagreed. Once in a rare occasion, when his ire was showing a little too much, he sought me out after and apologized. We stood talking quite a while expressing our mutual respect for each other and the fact that we could disagree without being disagreeable. I respected Bob very much and regret that we may not work together again. God bless him and rest his soul. 

My prayers are with Bob's family.  I served with Bob as a volunteer and also in my role as staff at NASBA.  He was so passionate about the protection of the public and the regulation of the CPA profession.  We had many spirited debates over the 20+ years that we worked together.  He had such a wonderful sense of humor and, even in those debates, often had a twinkle in his eye.  Most of all, Bob had a soft heart.  He talked tough, but was such a compassionate man.  I will sure miss him!

Not sure what I will miss most….Being your banker, Saturday morning breakfast at Pam’s with the boys, tailgating, Shagging on the parking lot of Carter Finley….The list goes on!
I sure hope they’re serving Party Punch up there & serving your brides deviled eggs!!! They sure are THE best! Sure love you buddy! 💔

I met Bob 27 years ago when I interviewed for a job with the Board.  Until his retirement in 2021, he was my boss, my mentor, and my "work dad." He wasn't a big fan of technology and liked to joke that all his computer files were named "y." Bob was so proud when learned to send emails himself! For many years, my office was adjacent to his and I could often hear beach music playing.  Although he could seem intimidating, Bob had a heart of gold and did what he could to help others.  He often volunteered at a local soup kitchen and the times I accompanied him, his compassion for others was evident.  I am grateful for the visits I had with Bob after he retired and I loved seeing his eyes light up when I brought him fresh pork skins! Thanks for 27 years of friendship, Bob. 

Bob will always be remembered as a great member of the Raleigh Kiwanis Club.  He served in every capacity as an officer including President.  He was the chairman of many of the Kiwanis fund-raising activities that continue on to this day.  My company also rented office space in the building belonging to the NCCPA and I found him to be extremely helpful and fair in all my business dealings with him.  He was truly a "nice guy" in every sense of the word and will be missed by all who knew nim.


I fully agree with Phil Kirk that Bob was a great Kiwanian and add that he also was a unique person, always positive, always looking to solve the problem, not to cause it, and always light-hearted and entertaining those around him with his never-ending stories.  We remember those whose company always was enjoyable and who left a bright spot in our lives each time we were with them, and Bob was a standout in that group.  My condolences to his family and friends.

Bob was a great Kiwanian by all standards.  He was willing to do any job in the organization and he shied away (somewhat) from the spotlight and did not seek credit for himself.  I enjoyed sitting near him at Kiwanis because he always shared his sense of humor with us.  He has been missed in person at our meetings for the last several years but was usually attending via zoom.  Our prayers are Cammie and the family.

Deepest sympathy from an old friend from NASBA days. Many good times and laughs at meetings with Bob, he was a great person.
Rest in peace my friend, see you on the other side.

Bill Schroeder
Former IOWA Board Director

Bob was so instrumental in organizing all the occupational licensing boards across all professions. He was such a help to all of the smaller boards, we will always be grateful to such a great man.


Bob will be sorely missed.  He would clip the articles and send them to me when I was in a local news story after speaking publicly or presenting financial literacy information.  Such a committed CPA.  Glad we know that his soul is in Heaven now with no more sickness. He was very proud of the Brooks family.  My sincere condolences to you at this time.

Bob was a great mentor to me here at the Board.  He always greeted people with "Hey Bud".  He loved his family and he loved coming to work at the CPA Board every day.  He was involved with the CPA profession at both the state and national levels and his contributions will be remembered by many.  He will be missed.  

Vance and I send our love and prayers to all of you. Bob’ s smile and humor will be missed by so many friends and family.  Take the time to share your memories, for they will become cherished treasures.   These memories and the love and prayers of others will help you through this difficult time. 

OBITUARY

Robert Nowell (Bob) Brooks

16 May, 1949 – 27 August, 2023

Brown-Wynne Funeral Home & Crematory

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services