James “Jim” Brooks

James Clay “Jim” Brooks transitioned peacefully at his home on January 20, 2026, at the age of 87. He was born on November 26, 1938 to Charleton and Elizabeth Brooks. James was known for his strong yet quiet demeanor, loving spirit, and unwavering integrity. He lived a life rooted in faith, service and devotion to family and community.
James was a proud graduate of Western High School, where he actively participated in several sports. He began his working years at Dura, which later became Weaver Corporation, remaining there until the company closed. He later worked for the City of Paris Waste Water Treatment Plant. James also served his community in many other roles, including working at Martyn Hurley Funeral Home, delivering the Lexington Herald-Leader, bartended for special events, and served as Funeral Director with O. L. Hughes & Sons Mortuary until his illness.
James accepted Christ at an early age and found great joy in worship and church fellowship. He was a faithful member of Little Rock Christian Church until its closure, after which he joined Seventh Street Christian Church. There, he served faithfully as an Elder, usher, and member of the Senior Choir, Men’s Choir, and Chariots of Fire until his health no longer allowed. James had a deep love for music and especially loved to sing.
He was a dedicated member of Hiram Lodge #7 of Paris Ky, member of the Ky Association of Morticians Inc., and a devoted member of the Paris Kiwanis Club for 30 years. James was the third African American to serve in the Kiwanis Club and was recognized as a Spiritual and Humanity Leader. In recognition of his service and impact, he received the Key to the City of Paris, with James Brooks Day proclaimed on November 26, 2023.
James was an avid sports fan who loved the Cleveland Browns and enjoyed watching the Kentucky Wildcats. Above all he cherished time with his family, who meant the world to him. He loved everyone and everyone loved him. To keep his legacy alive, we must continue to love as he did.
James leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 63 years, Catherine Myhnier Brooks; three children, Vicki (James) Clark, Terence (Jennifer) Brooks, and Derek (Krystal) Brooks; brothers Wallis (Nicole) Brooks, Clayton (Cathy) Brooks, Gary (Monica) Brooks, and Evans Fields; sisters Laura Fields, Lynn Kay Fields, and Margaret (Ron) Chambers; sisters-in-law Jacqueline (Eddie) Durant, Anita Nelson, Margaret Brooks, and Lois Webster; brother-in-law Donald Lee Gay; thirteen grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren: Jordaun, Allyah, Gabrielle, Lincoln, Braxton, Trinity, Derionne, Imani, Jalyn, Amber, James, Jamaun, Yadiel, Jyair, Miyah, Cameron, Dontay, Avery, and Asante, along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his step mother Nanine Brooks, sisters Gloria Dodge and Ruth Ann Howard; brothers William Brooks, Melvin Brooks, Charles Brooks, and John Fields; and his granddaughter Tristyn Fields.
James was a devoted husband, loving father, caring brother, cherished uncle, cousin, and faithful friend. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.
Visitation will be Friday, January 30, 2026, from 5:00 PM-8:00 PM at the First Christian Church in Paris.
Funeral services will be held at 11am, Saturday, January 31, 2026 at First Christian Church, 911 High Street, Paris, Kentucky 40361.
O. L. Hughes & Sons Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.