Major Arnold Herschel Brooks, US Army

Arnold “Arnie” Herschel Brooks was born on November 11, 1946, in Elmira, New York to Eldon and Ruby Brooks. Arnold transitioned on May 12, 2026, at the Tuskegee Airmen State Veteran’s Home of Fort Worth, Texas.

Arnie was first recognized as a natural leader and humanitarian when at age fourteen he heroically risked his life to save two younger children from drowning.

After graduating from Elmira Free Academy (EFA), he proudly served his country by joining the United States Army. During his military service, he became a helicopter pilot in the Vietnam War. Major Brooks was decorated with multiple ribbons and medals. His two Bronze Stars 1st Oak Leaf Cluster (OLC) being his highest. After his active-duty service, he completed his commission in the Army Reserves. Arnold married Catherine Gilliam and during their 10 years of marriage, three daughters were born. They relocated from Fort Riley, Kansas to Omaha, Nebraska. Arnie had a productive career with many promotions at Mutual of Omaha. He retired in 2004.

After an extended courtship, he married Beverly Thompson on October 15, 1982. During their years together they shared many fun memories of travel, family life, and their beloved Keeshond, Sir Benson. Arnie had a deep love of photography and was an avid golfer, winning professional awards in both. After retiring from Mutual of Omaha, they relocated to North Carolina for 15 years before finally settling in Arlington, Texas in 2020, after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Arnie was civic minded serving in many organizations: Apache Helicopter Troop Club, Boy Scouts of America, Mid-America Council (Umoja District Commissioner), Benedicts Men’s Social Club (Treasurer), Legacy at Sandy Ridge Homeowners Association Board, Nebraska Urban League (Life Member), NAACP, Omaha Black Museum (Board Member) and membership in several North Carolina Photography Clubs. A true renaissance man, Arnold had a deep love for photography. He traveled across the United States capturing breathtaking scenic images for both personal enjoyment and professional work. Arnie had an Art Studio to exhibit and sell his work. He was also an avid golfer for many years working as a volunteer on PGA events. He often encouraged his children and grandchildren to join him, though they never quite shared his enthusiasm.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Eldon Brooks Jr., Cecil, and Charles; his foster siblings, Pastor Willie Ellis and Charlene McConnell; and on January 31, 2026, his beloved eldest daughter, Crystal Marie Brooks.

Arnie is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly; his daughters, Arnette and Dorothy “Dottie,” his grandchildren, Billy Jr., Amber, Albani, Amani, and Jordan; his great-grandchildren, Malachi, Billy III, and Shamari; and his foster sister, Phyllis Smith, along with a host of extended family and friends.

Arnold will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, great-grandfather, and a loyal friend. His warmth, wisdom, and passion for life touched many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.