Michael Anthony Brooks was called to his heavenly home on Saturday, July 13, 2019. Mike, as he was affectionately known, was born to Willie J. and Ola Brooks in Greensboro, NC on September 17, 1957. He was preceded in death by his father.

Mike's love for cars and his inquisitive nature were expressed early in life. As a boy, he received toy cars every year and promptly took them apart to discover their working parts. His explorations continued as a young teen, when he borrowed his Mom's car keys to persuade his younger brother to get in the trunk as a prank. Mike then proceeded to jack up the car, only to be halted by their dad as he pulled into the driveway after work. These early antics led Mike to become a skilled mechanic, working on cars of friends, family and neighbors. He enjoyed fixing cars. Mike also enjoyed socializing with family, telling jokes, eating banana pudding, reminiscing about his early years, and playing the guitar.

Mike was a product of the former Greensboro City Schools, where he attended Brooks, Bluford, and Peeler Elementary Schools, Allen Junior High and Dudley High Schools. Mike was one of the first African Americans to attend Brooks School in the early 1960s. He graduated from James B. Dudley High School as a member of the mighty class of 1976. While in high school, Mike excelled in football and was recruited to play at Shaw University, in Raleigh, NC. After his time at Shaw, and upon his return to Greensboro, Mike was employed by the City of Greensboro, for a number of years, and worked his way up to the level of supervisor.

Growing up in Greensboro, Mike attended Trinity AME Zion Church with his family and even walked with his siblings to Hayes Memorial AME Zion to attend Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and participate in church performances. As an adult, he attended South English Street Church of Christ and later moved his membership to Church of Jesus Apostolic Faith, Siler City, NC. His passion and desire to serve the Lord led Mike to answer the call to preach the gospel. He later became the Associate Pastor at the church.

Mike is survived by his mother, Ola Brooks (Greensboro), four children, Darius Dashawn Rutledge (Tabor City, NC), Charmaine "Tiny" Caldwell, Maurice Brooks, and Melinda Brooks, all of Greensboro; five siblings, Tyrone Bennett (Marina) of California, Dr. Cynthia Brooks Wooten (Juan), Willie "Ricky" Brooks (FeNee), Brenda Kay Kellam (Bobby), Ellie Louise Baldwin (Clarence) all of Greensboro; two grandchildren, Jaquaye and Markeese, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A homegoing celebration will be held on Monday, July 22, 2019 at Trinity AME Zion Church, 631 E. Florida Street, Greensboro.  Visitation with the family begins at 11:30 am followed by the service at 12:00 pm.  Interment will follow at Forestlawn Cemetery.