Billy Ray “Bud” Brooks, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on September 29, 2026, at the age of 88. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of love, family, sports, and service to his community.
Bud was born on July 21, 1938, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, to Frances Marion Ray Brooks and William Thomas Brooks. He graduated from Tullahoma High School in 1956, where he was a talented and dedicated basketball player. His love of sports remained an important part of his life throughout the years.
Bud attended the University of South Carolina and graduated in 1961. He went on to build a successful career as a CPA and was proud to own and operate his own accounting firm, Brooks and Associates.
Beyond his career, Bud was passionate about giving back to young people and his community. He coached Little League through the Crieve Hall Youth Athletic Association and coached basketball with the Franklin Optimist Club. He loved watching and cheering for his beloved South Carolina Gamecocks, as well as the University of Tennessee. Sports brought him great joy, but even more meaningful to him were the friendships and memories made along the way.
Bud and his wife, Diana Dee, shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they enjoyed traveling and especially loved taking cruises, making many special memories during their adventures together.
Bud was preceded in death by his sisters, Eva Lee Hardin and Jane Brooks Gaddis.
He is survived by his loving wife, Diana Dee Brooks; his sons, Dave Brooks (Jennifer) and Guy Brooks (Nikki); and his grandchildren, Emily Brooks Steward (Troy), Kara Brooks, Morgan Brooks, and Mason Brooks.
Bud will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for sports, his dedication to his community, and the many lives he touched throughout the years. His family and friends will forever treasure the memories they shared with him and the love he gave so freely.
Visitation will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home, 660 Thompson Lane, Nashville, TN 37204. A celebration of Bud’s life will follow at 11:30 a.m.
