Woodrow A. "Woody" Brooks

Woodrow A. “Woody” Brooks, age 84, passed away February 26, 2026 in Canton.

Son of Violet and Woodrow, he was born on June 14, 1941 at Fort McClellan Army base in Alabama. His family moved back to Akron when he was a young child. Aside from a few years living in Germany as a teenager and the last several months in Canton while fighting cancer, Woody lived and was rooted in Akron the majority of his life.

Woody graduated from Akron East High School in 1959. He went on to earn a degree in Education from the University of Akron and returned later to earn a Master’s equivalency in Education.

After college Woody began a career in teaching. He spent most of his time teaching math and science at the elementary and middle school levels for Akron Public Schools. He retired with 35 years of service.

Woody met his wife Shirley while pursuing his teaching degree. Together as devoted parents they raised a family of three children. He enjoyed doing many things with his family including boating, going on trips, and being involved in his kids activities. Woody and Shirley were married for 36 years until her passing in August of 2000.

Mentoring youth was very important to Woody as demonstrated by the many years he taught, coached, and was involved in Scouting. He was dedicated to Scouting throughout his life achieving the highest rank of Eagle in his youth and receiving the Silver Beaver Award for his distinguished service to Scouting as an adult. Woody volunteered as a scoutmaster and served as summer camp director at Great Trail Council’s Camp Manatoc for 19 years.

Woody was many things to many people throughout his life- a caring son, brother, uncle, cousin; a loving husband; an amazing and supportive father and grandfather; respected colleague; good friend; leader and role model. He had many hobbies and seemingly endless skills. Woody was capable of doing almost everything from home repairs and renovations, a mechanic, painting and restoring cars, woodworking, and various sports.

Woody was preceded in death by wife Shirley; sisters Clara Brown and Wanda Simmons. He is survived by close friend and companion Maria Chapman; children Tammy Bradfield(Troy), Woody Brooks(Annmarie), Ken Brooks(Becky); grandchildren Dylan, Darren, and Morgan.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Woody’s life at Wedgewood United Methodist Church, 2350 Wedgewood Dr. Akron, OH 44312 on Saturday, March 21st at 1:00 p.m. with visitation to follow. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to a cancer or youth organization of your choice. To leave a special message for Woody's family, please visit the guest book below.