James Edward Brooks passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025 in Kingwood, Texas.

Born in Huntsville, Texas, on December 10, 1943, to Edward Lee Brooks and Jimmie Bob Hightower Brooks, James spent his early years in Huntsville before moving to Texas City. He graduated from Texas City High School in 1962 and went on to play football at the University of Texas under Coach Darrell Royal. One of his proudest accomplishments was being a member of the 1963 National Championship Football Team.

After graduating, James married Jane Jarrell, and the couple moved to Houston, where James began his coaching career. A few years later, James took a new coaching job and they settled in Huntsville to raise their family. James was deeply rooted in the community, serving as a founding member of the Walker County Fair Association—a role he cherished. He and his family were active members of First Presbyterian Church in Huntsville, and he dedicated countless hours to youth as a 4-H Adult Leader.

During his years in Huntsville, James also coached for Huntsville ISD and worked for both the Texas Department of Corrections and Conoco Oil. In 1991, he returned to Austin and resumed coaching football. It was there he met the love of his life, Pat Dewey. They married in July 1995 and spent the next 30 years together enjoying their shared passions: coaching, fishing, and exploring the Texas Hill Country.

James is survived by his beloved wife, Pat, and her children, Vic Nicholas (Kelly) and Whitney Terrell (Chris). He is also survived by his three daughters: Kelley White (Glinn), Stacy Ely (Brad), and Jody Smith (Lyle); his first cousin Tracy Lynn Kadlecek (Shawn); and a legacy of grandchildren he adored: Tres White (McKenzie), Katelyn Nicholas, Ally Ely, Luke Ely, Paige Smith Georg (Blake), Travis White, Ansley Smith, Will Smith, Walker Smith, Nic Terrell, Elizabeth Nicholas, Anna Nicholas, and Jed Nicholas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Lee and Jimmie Brooks (known by all as Babba and Pappy), and his aunt, Cora Hightower Graefe.

James lived a life full of family, sports, and a deep love for the outdoors. Whether it was on the field, in the arena, or out fishing, he brought laughter and bull…. to everything he did.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Devotion Hospice and the caring staff at Auberge Memory Care of Kingwood. In place of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.