The Richmond News, March 28, 2025

John William Brooks, 74, of Richmond passed away Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond.

John was born Sept. 10, 1950, in Oklahoma City, the son of Austin Wayne and Kathryn Ann (Brown) Brooks.

He was united in marriage to Debra Kay Forguson of Anaheim, Calif., on Feb. 14, 1977. She survives of the home.

Additional survivors include his four children, Rebecca (Monte) Parker of Richmond, Jonathan Brooks of Richmond, Nicholas (Rebekah) Brooks of Independence and Christopher Brooks of Richmond; and nine grandchildren, Jacob Gardner, Shelby Schnettgoecke, Samantha (Tevin) Robinson, Blake Brooks, Zack Lingenfelter, Bryant Brooks, Paige Brooks, Alan Brooks and Heather Brooks. He also is survived by seven great-grandchildren: Blu, Lynden, Truitt, Maeven, Lilly, Carter, Mayson, with one on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, David Brooks and Robert Brooks.

John was raised and educated in various towns across the country as his father served in the U.S. Air Force. He graduated from high school while his family was stationed in Hawaii, where he was active in football and baseball. A talented athlete, John was scouted for his skills on the baseball field.

After high school, he attended college for a few years and took HVAC courses, but ultimately followed his true passion – cooking.

John spent most of his life working as a chef in restaurants and hotels across the country. He served as food and beverage director for Hilton, Ramada and Holiday Inn, earning a reputation as the person you called when the food and beverage department needed strong leadership and a fresh start.

A lifelong fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals, John also had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed surfing during his time in Hawaii and was an avid fisherman and hunter. More than anything, though, John cherished the time spent with his family, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the John Brooks Memorial Fund. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 29, at the Orrick First Baptist Church. Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of John with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.