Ronald Lee Brooks, 83, of Crane Hill, Alabama, was born October 22, 1942, in North Carolina and passed away September 13, 2026. He will be remembered as a devoted and beloved husband, father, and family man whose steady work ethic and faithful presence shaped the lives of those who knew him.
From an early age, Ronald learned what it meant to shoulder responsibility. Growing up amid family hardships, he faced adversity with resolve and a quiet resilience that carried him forward. He left school after the eighth grade so he could go to work and help support a household that included six siblings—an early reflection of the diligence and dependability that would define his life.
During his working years, Ronald held a corporate position before taking the bold step of opening his own automotive repair shop. There, he found his stride—skilled, committed, and proud of work done right—until back injuries forced an early retirement. Even then, his determination and willingness to do for others remained constant.
In May of 1962, Ronald married Brenda Gail Key Brooks, and together they shared 64 years of marriage marked by loyalty and enduring devotion. Their life together began in Greensboro, North Carolina, and in June 1963, they welcomed their only child, Johnny Lee Brooks. Johnny later married Stacy Sorensen, and the family grew with the blessing of grandchildren: Heather Nicole, followed by twins Michaela Michelle and Sarah Danielle. Heather (Adam), Michaela (Jason), and Danielle grew into successful young adults, and Ronald took great pride in seeing the next generations flourish. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Tucker, Tanner, Carter, and Vivian.
Ronald’s interests reflected both his craftsmanship and his love of shared time with family. He enjoyed hunting and racing—motocross with his son Johnny and stock car racing. He especially loved building motors and building them fast, finding satisfaction in the precision, patience, and know-how the work required. NASCAR was his favorite sport; he recorded races on VHS and treasured taking his family to the track, turning those outings into lasting memories. He also enjoyed watching westerns and listening to oldies and country music. Among his favorites were “I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton and “Last Date” by Floyd Cramer.
Ronald also gave of himself beyond his home. As an active Mason in Greensboro, he participated in community outreach, offering guidance to young people facing adversity and supporting Christmas festivities and gift-giving. In times of need, he provided a temporary home for friends and family—an act of care that spoke to the kind of man he was: steady, generous, and quietly protective of those he loved.
Ronald is survived by his wife, Brenda Gail Key Brooks; his son, Johnny Lee Brooks; his sisters, Rosemary Burnett, Kathy Brooks Elders, and Myron Brooks Inman; his brothers, Gary Brooks and Dale Brooks; Grandchildren: Heather Nicole, twins Michaela Michelle and Sarah Danielle; great-grandchildren: Tucker, Tanner, Carter, and Vivian; and a host of other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Bryan Branklin Brooks; his mother, Virginia Johnsie Tucker Brooks; and his brother, Danny Joe Brooks.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held in the Fireside Room at Moss-Service Funeral Home, 1901 2nd Avenue, N.W., Cullman, Alabama 35055, on September 20, 2026, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.
In remembering Ronald, family and friends will carry forward the example he set—of devotion that did not waver, work done with pride, and a love that made room for others.
