Born on November 19, 1969, Joe was one of those people who never met a stranger. He had a kind heart, a quick wit, and a sense of humor that could make anyone laugh. He had a way of making friends wherever he went and keeping those friendships for years. If you knew Joe, chances are you have a "Joe story"—whether it was a joke, a spirited discussion, an adventure you shared, or simply a conversation that made your day a little better. He loved to laugh, loved being around people, and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry R. and Patricia L. Collins Brooks; his paternal grandparents, Virgil H. and Dessie Brooks; and his maternal grandparents, Edward and Maude Collins.
He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Jerry L. and Christina Brooks and sister, Jill L. Brooks of Tazewell; niece, Emily Grace Hinton (Garrett); nephew, Hyatt N. Brooks (Hannah); great-nieces, Hannah Grace and Audrey Lee Hinton; great-nephews, Brooks James Hinton and Harrison Neal Brooks, all of Elizabethtown, KY; aunt and uncle Barbara and Earl Ridings of Tazewell, former wife Drena Brooks and family, P. J. Miller, Taylor Bailey (Joshua) and children Adalynn Dummitt and Bennett Bailey, along with cousins and lifelong friends.
Joe lived a life defined by service, determination, and unwavering loyalty to his family, friends, and community. He was a farmer and a United States Navy veteran, and he dedicated much of his life to serving others. Joe was elected Claiborne County Mayor in 2018 and was proudly serving his second term while actively seeking a third. Throughout his public service, he became known as a strong advocate for the people of Claiborne County. Joe’s legacy of service to his community will continue to be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His love for his family, his country, and Claiborne County leaves an enduring mark that will not be forgotten.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 30, 2026 from 3 PM until 7 PM at Claiborne High School. The funeral service will follow at 7 PM. The school will be open for an additional visitation on Friday, July 31, 2026 from 10 AM until 11 AM. A graveside service with military honors will follow at 12 PM in the Joseph Brooks Cemetery on Cave Springs Rd. The family requests that attendees wear "Vote Joe" or red shirts at the graveside.
Minister: Todd Peoples
Obituary: Hyatt Brooks
Shared Memories: Emily Hinton, P.J. Miller, Taylor Bailey, Whitt Shuford, Dorothy Shuford
Singers: Tennessee 90
Pallbearers - Hyatt Brooks, Garrett Hinton, P. J. Miller, Whitt Shuford, Jason Roney, Brent Cheek
Honorary Pallbearers - Brooks Hinton, Harrison Brooks, Charlton Vass, Don Rasnic, Claiborne County Commissioners and other Elected Officials and Courthouse Employees
