Charles Melvin Brooks was born in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1927. He was the son of Altman & Lucille Brooks. His young life was focused on enjoying life on his Uncle’s dairy farm. In 1945 he signed up to go to WWII. He served aboard ship in the Pacific as a Gunner until the end of the war.

He met his loving wife, Joanne, at the Pensacola Yacht Club. They have been married for 43 years. They enjoyed many happy years living on Pensacola Beach and made many lasting friendships.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne. He is also survived by his two adult children: Thomas W. Brooks (J.Leigh) of Tallahassee and La Donna Lackey (Tom) of Pensacola. He is the grandfather of 5: Allen Peterson (Shelby); Brian Peterson (Tanya); Mallory Brooks (Mike); Allison Brooks & Graham Brooks (Becka). He had 4 great grandchildren: He has a great, great granddaughter, Miss Charlotte Rose Peterson. He also leaves a loving sister-in-law, Ms. Danielle Branch.

He has been a member of the Pensacola Yacht Club for over 50 years. He was elected Commodore of the club twice. He was an avid sailor aboard his racing boat, “Vendetta” and a very successful winning captain. He has been a long-time member of the Elks lodge on Pensacola Beach where he & Joanne have enjoyed laughter & friends. He will be missed by all who knew him…. Sail On My Friend, Sail On.

A celebration of life will be held at the Pensacola Beach Elks Lodge on Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 1-4 PM.

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