Sterling Brooks Sr., 87, of Lincoln, Nebraska, passed away peacefully at his home on August 29, 2025.
Born on September 29, 1937, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Fred Brooks Sr. and Hybernia Reed Brooks. He attended school, and in 1968, he moved his family to Lincoln, Nebraska, determined to provide his children with greater educational opportunities.
Sterling worked diligently at Gooch’s Mill and ADM for more than 40 years before retiring. Never one to sit still and always eager to connect with people, he continued working at Cracker Barrel, where he enjoyed sharing stories and conversations with friends and strangers.
A man of deep faith as a deacon in the Pentecostal church, Sterling was devoted to God and well-versed in the Bible, often spending time reading, teaching, and living by its word. He also found joy in traveling the highways, cruising around the city in his signature big- brimmed hats, and cherishing time with his beloved family.
Sterling is survived by his daughters, Sherry Brooks- Nelson and Sandra Brooks- Woods (Nathan), both of Lincoln, and Valencia Richardson of College Park, Georgia; his sons, Sterling Brooks Jr. (Mylene), George Brooks, and Raynard Brooks, all of Lincoln. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his 21 grandchildren, 22 great- grandchildren, and 5 great-great- grandchildren; sisters, Bettie Grey and Rosie Lyle s of Birmingham, Alabama, and Elgertha Robinson of Cleveland, Ohio, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family also survive him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Brooks Sr. and Hybernia Reed Brooks; siblings, Earline Foster, Freddie Mae Brooks, and Fre d Brooks Jr.; his son-in-law, James Nelson; daughter-in-law, Dawn Brooks; and grandson, Joshua Brooks.
Sterling life will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Wyuka Funeral Home and Cemetery, 3600 “O” Street, Lincoln. Memorials to the family for further designation.
My heart goes out to you for the loss of your father. I hope your happy memories will help you through this difficult time.