Johne Crow Brooks

Johne Crow Brooks, a dedicated and accomplished man, passed away on December 8, 2023, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He was born on June 2, 1932, in Joplin, Missouri. After earning his bachelor’s degree in business administration from SMU, Johne served honorably in the United States Navy as part of the USS Hancock crew.

Upon returning home, Johne eventually established himself as the owner and operator of Brooks Supply Company in Monroe, Louisiana. His business initially began with him hauling milk jugs until he discovered his niche in electronics and computer parts. Johne quickly became the go-to person for all the plants around Monroe when they needed a part that no one else had. Whenever other businesses were unable to meet the needs of the plant operators, they invariably directed them to "Call Brooks." Eventually, it became second nature for everyone to rely solely on Johne's expertise.

Not one to rest on past successes, Johne adapted his business with the ever-evolving technological landscape. He immersed himself in computer programming, delved into electronics repairs, and even wrote the original code for Podnah's BBQ in Monroe. This ingenuity propelled Johne's business forward and solidified his reputation as a pioneering entrepreneur.

Johne was also an active member of his community and found joy in coaching youth baseball in Monroe for an impressive 45 years. He was revered around Saul Adler ballpark as the "Godfather" of the Monroe Youth Baseball Association due to his unparalleled commitment and passion for the sport. His vision of what could be in Monroe brought the beginning of T-Ball, 9 y/o Machine Pitch and Little League Allstars to the area. Generations of young athletes had the privilege of learning under his guidance. Outside of work and community involvement, Johne cherished his hobbies and interests. When he moved to Baton Rouge and Lake Sherwood Village, Johne quickly made friends and spearheaded the social life. One of his favorite times of the day was his daily 4:30 PM date to play Joker with his friends and neighbors at Lake Sherwood Village. He also thoroughly enjoyed his “back porch bunch” at the end of the day for a cocktail and laughs. These cherished pastimes allowed him to foster deep connections and forge lasting friendships.

Johne Crow Brooks is preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Sue Brooks, who stood as his steadfast partner in raising their family and running their business; his parents, Frank Gibson Brooks and Mabel Crow Brooks; and his sisters, Louise Cole, and Frances Brooks.

He is survived by his sons, Aaron Brooks and wife Kim, Rusty Brooks and wife Angela, as well as his grandchildren Johne Nicholas Brooks and wife Emily, William Landrum Brooks, Josh Alexander Brooks, and Sean Christopher Brooks.

Johne Crow Brooks leaves behind a remarkable legacy of hard work, dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment. He touched countless lives through his professional accomplishments, community involvement, and personal relationships. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff and residents at Lake Sherwood Village for sharing their tremendous love and friendships with Johne Brooks over the last eight years.

A memorial service will be held at Lake Sherwood Village on December 22nd from 4:00pm-6:00pm at 4101 Plaza Tower Drive in Baton Rouge.