TRIBUTE TO THE LEGACY OF THE LATE PASTOR B. J. BROOKS, SR.

On March 16, 1968 the late Pastor B. J. Brooks Sr., was unanimously called as Pastor of Greater Mount Lily Missionary Baptist Church. He faithfully served for 29 years and 11 months, until he left this beautiful shore of life and went home to be with his maker and creator. Pastor Brooks was not only a big man in stature but was also big at heart. He possessed a genuine passion and love for all people. He was a born leader who worked fervently in the local community promoting voter and human rights. He was a strong, patient man, and always tried to steer people in the right direction.

His community work and involvement were outstanding.

In 1969 he was elected President of the local chapter of the National Association For the Advancement of Colored People, where he served until 1979. He was a subscribing Life Member of the N.A.A.C.P, and was later elected as President to a second term in 1995, where he served untiringly until the Lord called him home. He was also a member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

Pastor Brooks led with integrity and character

Served as Moderator of the First West Florida District Association. He was also an instructor of numerous Christian Education classes. Although extremely busy, the work of the Lord always came first. Everyone at Greater Mount Lily knew Pastor Brooks loved the Lord, his family, and the Greater Mount Lily Church Family.

He served

On the Governor’s Task Force, Human Rights Commission, Urban League, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and City Council Advisory Board. He was even voted Man of the Year, Inducted into the Hall of Fame, and enjoyed recognitions and honors from a number of other organizations.

In the 1970’s

he actively participated in numerous demonstrations, such as Civil Right marches, sit-in’s, walk-in’s, school visits, and jail visits where people were being mis-treated. He exemplified the Spirit of community leadership, consistently stepping forward to assume such responsibility. The community work he embraced was not glamorous at all, but he was the type of leader who didn’t mind getting his hands dirty. If there was work to be done, he could always be found right in the middle of things, helping to get the job accomplished. Pastor Brooks was a Pioneer in Pensacola, and a vast number of positive social changes were brought about as a direct result of his tireless efforts.

He cared for the sick, the unjustly incarcerated, and was a true friend who could always be counted on. He fought hard for every one of the many causes to which he devoted himself.

He was employed

With the State of Florida Department of Transportation for 28 years, serving as Department Supervisor for 10 years. At one point, because of his heavy community involvement and time devoted to various causes, he was fired from his job. He also went to jail, had a cross burned in his front yard, and endured numerous threats to his life and well-being. But God was in all of it, as his accusers could ultimately find no fault. Subsequently, he was reinstated back to his position on August 10, 1977 with full back pay. However, restitution did not come without a fight.

Out of all that has been done or said

Pastor Brooks was a hero for God. He is remembered as being one who wanted to see ALL children receive a higher education. One of his life-goals was to see the Greater Mount Lily Missionary Church congregation offer full Scholarships to those young people who wished to further their education.

To God be the glory

For allowing this GIANT of a man to be an inspiration to many, a Pastor to Greater Mount Lily, a husband, and a father. We will always cherish the loving memories of our beloved Brother, Leader, Pastor, and Teacher . . .The Late Pastor B. J. Brooks, Sr.

Who is this King of glory? The Lord of host, He is the King of glory!

Psalm 24:10 (KJV)