Michael Brooks

PAWTUCKET, RI – Michael L. Brooks, 61, passed away on January 14th, 2025, in Miriam Hospital after a brief illness. 

Michael Brooks, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, uncle, and brother, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to helping others.

He is survived by his wife, Tracey Belanger-Brooks; his son Brandan Belanger, Brandan’s fiancée, Sara Lasky, and their sons, Aybel, Lucian, and Logan; his sons Sean Brooks and Christian Brooks, and Christian’s fiancée, Kaitlyn Ghiz, all of Worcester, MA. He also leaves his son Tré Brooks, Tré’s wife, Mindy Brooks, their daughter, Marvel, and their sons on the way, all of Barre, MA; and his beloved daughter, Meshia Brooks of Boston, MA. Additionally, Michael is survived by his brother, John Tatum, and his mother, Renee Brooks-Tatum, both of Chicago, IL and many close nieces and nephews which he loved dearly.

He was predeceased by his father, Leon Brooks of Chicago, IL; his stepfather John Wesley Tatum of Chicago, IL; his brother, Martin Brooks of Pawtucket, RI; and his sister, Nina Brooks of Atlanta, GA.

Born in Cook County, Illinois, Michael was the son of Renee Brooks-Tatum and the late Leon Brooks. A dedicated and compassionate individual, he worked at City Hospital and Grafton Job Corps, positively impacting the lives of many. In 2004, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Springfield College, graduating summa cum laude. His passion for helping others led him to work for many years with youth at the Bridge Over Troubled Waters Transitional Living Program, where he continued to change lives until his passing.

Michael’s home was a gathering place for family, filled with warmth, laughter, and love. He truly cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories through shared experiences. He loved preparing big meals for his family, always ensuring that there was plenty to eat and that every visitor felt welcomed. His passion for cooking was matched by his love for games and movies—he enjoyed playing video games and chess with his kids and bonding over sci-fi films and classic kung-fu movies. A lifelong fan of Star Trek, Speed Racer, and music, Michael’s enthusiasm for storytelling and adventure was something he passed down to his children.

Michael will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his kindness, and his dedication to uplifting those in need. His legacy of love and service, along with his nurturing and joyful spirit, will live on in the many lives he touched.

Services are private at request of the family. Arrangements are being handled by Belanger-Bullard Funeral Home, 51 Marcy St, in Southbridge, MA, 01550. An online guestbook is available for those wishing to leave their condolences at www.BelangerFuneralHome.com.