Cecil grew up in Vinita, OK, alongside his 10 siblings, variously with his parents, James Middlebrooks and Lavada Crownover, the state, and then with his mother and stepfather, Lewis Cook. His childhood was difficult but did not defeat him. He turned that hurt into healing and compassion for others and used it to grow as a better person his whole life.
At 17, he got permission to join the United States Air Force, where he finished his high school equivalency. In 1960, while stationed at Selfridge Air Base, he was invited by a fellow airman to a party off base. There he met the love of his life, Anna Bean. Three months later, they were married and spent nearly 48 years creating a family and building a life full of security and love.
Cecil kept it simple. A Michigan or Lions football game, a trip to the casino, or a good western were the pastime activities he was always ready for. His greatest joy came from the people he loved, and he relished our accomplishments and held space for when we failed. His generous spirit touched many people throughout his life, and he will be remembered as a giver, never a taker.
Family was most important and grew through love rather than labels. Cecil is survived by his three daughters, Carol Middlebrooks-Wilber (Scott), Sheryl Kosco (Jeff), and Dawn Casella (Michael). His four grandchildren, Lynn Wilber (Elizabeth Exeter), Nicklas Casella (Claire), Elizabeth Erenberg (Luke), and Sarah Kosco (Dillan Murillo), and great-granddaughter Aelin Erenberg. He is also remembered by sisters Dorothy Spencer and Joyce Cook, bonus daughter Peggy Murawski, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Monday, November 9, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, followed by a celebration of life beginning at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery.
