Jayden Lamar Brooks was born August 25, 2002, to the Rev. Dr. Cleo A. Brooks, Jr. and the Rev. Dr. Kim C. Brooks. On July 4, 2026, after one final battle with pneumonia, he went home to be with the Lord.

Jayden was a happy baby whose life changed dramatically at 11 months old when he suffered a severe brain injury that left him unable to walk or talk. From that moment on, he required round-the-clock care. Despite the doctors saying he would not live to see his first birthday, God allowed his family to share 23 wonderful years with him. Jayden’s life radiated strength and resilience. Although he never spoke a word, Jayden touched the hearts of many people and “preached” powerful sermons through all that God brought him through. His life was a testimony of endurance and grace. He has fought the good fight, he has finished his race, and is now taking his well-deserved rest with the Lord.

He was preceded in death by: great-grandmother, Clero M. Baldwin; and grandfathers, Rev. Cleo A. Brooks, Sr., and William Windley, Sr.

Left to cherish his memory are: his parents, Cleo and Kim Brooks; sisters, Devyn Brooks and Lauren Brooks-Bresnee (Alex); grandmothers, Mildred Brooks and Queen Windley, and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins.