George D. Brooks

His father George W. Brooks and mother Flossie Leslie had six children: Sterling, Floyd, JB, Don, Pauline, George D (Dick) and Bernice. After losing his mother early in childhood Ossie Haynes became his stepmother. Two more children were added to the family Sam and Mary Bell.

George was known as Dad, Papa, Dick and Sergeant, is survived by is only child Georgiana Brooks Davila, grandsons: Brandon, Bryan and Jeremy; one-great grandson Benjamin, his sister Bernice Gray, his brother Sam and sister Mary Bell. He is also survived by a host of relatives and friends in different parts of the States.

George experienced many life trials that built his character of commitment, determination and resilience. At 14 George delivered mail and walked 26 miles a day. Then he joined the CC Camp to help build state parks. At 16 in 1939 he joined the Army to serve his country. George was discharged in 1960 with the rank of First Sergeant E8.

He was stationed in different places in the US and during WWII; George served in England and France. Later when he was stationed in West Point, NY he met Gladys Elmendorf and they married in 1948. In 1951 George and Gladys had a daughter whom they name Georgiana after her father George, her grandfather George and great-grandfather George. The family moved to Japan and Germany. His last post was Ft. Hood, Texas where he retired and live in Killeen.

After his military retirement George worked as a supervisor for the Fleet Services for the City of Killeen. He later retired to pursue his passion in gardening.

George had many hobbies. He enjoyed being a radio ham operator and had friends around the world. He loved cooking, buying junk, and being creative with his imagination. With his love of gardening he cultivated his famous yard and bushes into topiary animals. George always loved Christmas and decorated with yard cut outs and lights for all to enjoy.

George appreciated and volunteered at the Salvation Army and he would occasionally visit the Lutheran Church. He was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge.

George can be remembered for his philosophy for life with sayings like “To each its own.” And during financial hard times say “You need to tighten you belt.” Also, when enjoying his cooking, “Take all you want but eat all you take.” When asked how he was doing he would reply, “Still above the ground.” He liked to do “one thing at a time.”

Public viewing will be 10 am followed by a service on December 28th, 2012, at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home on Highway 195 in Killeen. It is requested that only family members will participate at the burial service at the VA Memorial Cemetery.

He was a loving father, husband, father-in-law, grandfather, brother, son and friend. And will be missed by all.