Brooks Jacobs

Dexter Brooks Jacobs, a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and grandfather passed away unexpectedly on Sunday afternoon, September 10, 2023, at his home in Raleigh, North Carolina. He was 70 years old. Born on July 27, 1953, in Siler City, North Carolina, Brooks was the son of Leo Dexter Jacobs, Jr. and Doris Stoneman Jacobs.

Brooks is lovingly remembered by his wife of 45 years, Debra Hagy Jacobs, and their three daughters: Abby Jacobs Hudson (Ted Hudson), Kaley Jacobs Parody (Randy Parody), and Molly Jacobs Stevens (Chris Stevens). He was a doting “Pop- Pop” to Ellie Hudson (10), Tucker Hudson (8), Raleigh Stevens (5), Carter Parody (3), and Piper Parody (1). He also leaves behind his adoring sister, Linda Tennant (James Tennant), brother-in-law and best buddy, Ed Hagy (Carol Hagy), nephews: Brooks McMath, Drew McMath and Hunter Hagy (Emily Hagy); niece Holly Eaddy (Scott Eaddy), and a host of extended family and friends.

Brooks's life was a testament to his unwavering love for his family. He poured his heart and soul into their lives, always ready to create lasting memories. He showed up for his family in every sense of the word. If it mattered to his loved ones, it mattered to him, and he expressed his love in endless ways.

In his youth, Brooks was a gifted athlete, excelling in football and wrestling while growing up in the Greensboro area. Had always had a close bond with his sister, Linda, which remained strong through all of life’s ups and downs – and they always had each other’s backs. Brooks met the love of his life, Debby, after college through mutual friends. As the story goes, he proposed to her while she was swimming laps at the pool, and her response was a playful "Let me swim a few more laps, and then I will let you know." Of course, she eventually said yes, and their beautiful life together began, centered around their wonderful daughters.

His daughters will forever cherish his dedication and boundless devotion. He was always there for them - from those very first steps to riding a bike, teaching them to drive, moving them into college, walking them down the aisle to the joy of cradling their newborns with the love and adoration that only a proud grandfather can offer. He instilled in his daughters the values of respect, humility and kindness towards others regardless of life's challenges – and to know that he was always just one call away.

Brooks shared unique and treasured relationships with each of his beloved grandchildren. They all enjoyed countless adventures with Pop-Pop, exploring dinosaur exhibits, butterfly museums, sports activities, school lunches, dance recitals, karaoke shows, trips to the playground, train rides, family gatherings and everything in between. Ellie would often call him on her tablet, sending him jokes, photos and stories, always knowing he would answer with a smile. Tucker would look for Pop-Pop at the start of all of his soccer games because he knew he would be there – with his foldable rocking chair and big smile to cheer him on at every single game and often buy slushies for everyone after. Raleigh affectionately called him "Mr. Dee Dee," playfully teasing him which of course he thought was hilarious. Carter's face would light up whenever he saw Pop-Pop, exclaiming, "Hiya, Pop-Pop!" before eagerly running into his arms at which point Brooks would exclaim “Hi Carter! You just made my day!”. Piper always held her little arms out for him to hold her when she saw her Pop Pop. These special bonds and fond memories will be something the family will always holds close to their hearts.

Brooks truly hit the jackpot in the son-in-law and brother-in-law departments. To him, they were like the sons and brother he never had, and he cherished their friendship as much as their family bond. He took immense pride that his daughters had chosen such upstanding, respectful and hardworking men to share their life with. Regular visits from Chris, Ed, Ted, or Randy were a welcome norm – hardly a week passed without one of them dropping by to fix a household appliance, troubleshoot a tech issue, or simply gather around his fire pit. They'd crack open a cold beverage, share laughs and tell each other about their day.

Brooks had a heart full of generosity, kindness and thoughtfulness with a keen memory for special occasions and important dates. He would surprise you by already paying your anniversary dinner when you got to the restaurant or pick up the Uber tab so you could enjoy a night out. He loved talking to and meeting new people – and was always ready to offer help or give you the shirt off his back if he thought it would make your day a little better. He had a kick ass sense of humor and a knack for delivering one-liner dad jokes, sharing funny stories, and amusing news headlines. He loved acronyms and would eagerly teach you what they meant, often with unexpected twists. (Did you know ASAP means Always Say a Prayer? or TGIF stands for Toes Goes in First?).

Above all, Brooks was a remarkably easy-going, laid-back individual who found joy in life's simple pleasures: a rocking chair, a fan, a TV, and a Bud Light were enough to make him content for hours. He possessed the unique ability to help others see the bigger picture, encouraging gratitude for life's blessings and realizing how lucky you are. If you asked him how he was doing, the answer was always a positive one. His most recent favorite responses were “If I was doing any better I’d have a twin!” or “Doing better than I deserve!”.

Brooks's passing leaves an immeasurable void in our hearts, one that can never be fully filled. However, we are incredibly blessed to have known him, loved him, and been loved by him for 70 years. He made us better people, and for that, we are thankful. In his memory, let us find happiness, savor each day, cherish our loved ones, and honor our family.

All are welcome to visit with family and celebrate Brooks on Sunday, September 24, 2023 at the Raleigh Elks Club No. 735 (5538 Lead Mine Road in Raleigh) during the hours of 2:00pm - 5:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, a cause that held personal significance for him as he stood by his youngest daughter’s side for years as she battled and remarkably overcame colon cancer.

Brooks, Dad, Pop-Pop, Uncle Brooks, Mr. Dee Dee – until we meet again in heaven, you will forever be in our hearts.

If you would like to leave a favorite memory/story of Brooks or a message of condolence to Debbie and their girls, you may do so below within "add a memory".