Ronald was born on July 30, 1932, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Kenneth Brooks and Madeline Edwards. He attended Cleveland Public Schools and graduated from East High School, where he was a member of the a cappella choir and played basketball. During the summers, he worked as a lifeguard. A lifelong learner and creative spirit, Ronald also taught himself to play the guitar and draw.
Ronald worked at I. Schumann & Co. for 15 years before retiring in 1995. He was a proud member of Teamsters Local 400 for 35 years and served as a shop steward. Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down. He started his own home painting business, affectionately known as "Mr. Ron, The Painter." When he finally decided to retire from painting, he announced, "I'm going to go feed the horses" full time—a reflection of his personality and the things he enjoyed.
In 1989, Ronald married Patricia Frost in Cleveland, Ohio. They shared 37 years of marriage and welcomed one daughter, Erika.
Ronald leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Patricia Frost-Brooks; daughter, Erika Brooks; grandson, Jaleel Gilmore; great-grandson, Jerrion Gilmore; and great-great-granddaughter, Kaleia Gilmore.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth Brooks and Madeline Edwards; his brothers, Kenneth, Gerald, and Sonny; and his daughters, Veronica and Vera Lyn Brooks.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ronald's honor to:
The Alzheimer's Association – Cleveland Area Chapter
Attn: Walk to End Alzheimer's
P.O. Box 74924
Cleveland, OH 44194
