Mr. Alvin Brooks

Alvin Brooks was born May 24, 1926 in Travelers Rest, South Carolina to Jessie Brooks and Daisy Zimmerman Brooks. He enjoyed a life span of 96 years. He departed this life on Friday, September 30, 2022. Alvin grew up in Greenville, South Carolina. After the passing of his father, he halted his education at an early age to help support his mother and siblings. He was a World War II veteran serving as an airplane and engine mechanic for the Tuskegee Airmen. He often told his children stories of how the Black service members were treated during those years. For example, he would have to step off the sidewalk into the street to allow the white service members to pass by. These memories and others never left him; however, it did not change his character, morals, and stature as a man. After leaving the military, he briefly returned to South Carolina. Finding no work, he followed his brother Javan and moved to Detroit, Michigan where he married his longtime sweetheart, Catherine McCoy, of Travelers Rest, South Carolina. Alvin and Catherine were married for 65 years and, to this union, welcomed four children. Alvin worked for the City of Detroit as a Sanitation Worker. He retired after 30 years of service in 1983. Due to his longevity, periodically he would receive a certified letter from the City Pension Board requesting confirmation of life. In 1957, Alvin and a close group of friends formed the Fratelli Brothers Social Club. The Club was famous for their annual holiday cabarets and continued for 55 years. Alvin was a longtime, faithful member of El Bethel Church until he departed this life. He served as an Usher for many years. His strong, quiet demeanor will be missed by all that loved him. He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving and dedicated wife Catherine, four children: Kaven (Lois) McCoy, who proceeded him in death, Teena (Roscoe) Thomas, Tracy Brady, and Trent (Rebecca) Brooks; nine grandchildren: Shawntee, Damon, Ian, Evan, Aldrine, Dasha, Ashley, Trenese, and Shanel; seven great-grandchildren: Shawn, Antonio, Chammond, Damon Jr (DJ), Carrington, Troi, and Anair. Alvin will be missed by his beloved sister Grace Bruster of Greenville, South Carolina. Adopted children Cheryl Parker, Mildred Morris and the Walton Family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie Brooks and Daisy Zimmerman Brooks; his siblings: Rosele Smith, Alice Carson, Jessie, William, Thomas, Javan and John W. Brooks and a host of nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

Mr. Alvin Brooks

May 24, 1926 - September 30, 2022