J. Freeman Brookins' Obituary
CHARLESTON, IL - James Freeman Brookins, age 76 of Charleston, went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. Visitation will be held today, Monday, March 20, 2017 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at the First Church of God, 1225 Montgomery Dr. in Charleston. Memorial Services honoring and celebrating his life will begin at 4:00 p.m. at the church with Pastor Vance Oliver officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Mound Cemetery in Charleston. It is requested that thoughtful donations be made to the family to assist with final expenses. Gifts may be mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920. Freeman was born June 26, 1940 in Charleston, IL, the son of the late Jasper and Kathryn (Strader) Brookins. He married Darlene (Clayton) Strong on March 26, 1988 and they have shared 29 wonderful years together. Freeman previously was married to Maxine Smith and Carolyn (Lewis) Fitzpatrick and from those marriages he was blessed with four loving children, Chuck Brookins of Kansas, IL, Jerry Brookins (Vicky), Rhonda Bence, and Chad Brookins (Kelsey Crites) all of Charleston. He is also survived by Darlene's children and their families, Tom Strong (Jodie) of Mattoon, Michelle Guiot (Patrick) of Shelbyville, IL and Cindy Bly (Mike) of Strasburg, IL. Also left to cherish his memory are his 6 grandchildren, Jodie, Nick, Tevin and Tamar Brookins, Cory Bence (Brittany) and Aaron Bence; 2 great-grandchildren, Adeline Bence and Finn Patterson; a brother Elmer Brookins (Jane), sister Cleta Webster, and sister in law, Jackie Brookins; as well as several nieces, nephews and their families. In addition to his parents he was preceded by a sister, Janet (Dick) Warpenburg; a brother, Carroll Brookins; and a brother in law, Dean Webster. Freeman was a graduate of Charleston High School where he loved to participate in sports activities which included football. After high school, he started working at Midstate Foundry, was later employed by Wilb Walkers, and was currently the Dairy Manager at County Market. Freeman was a faithful member of the First Church of God in Charleston where he served as Church Trustee for the past seven years. He was also very active with the Charleston Booster Club. Freeman enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life. He was an active Bingo player and often enjoyed a game of cards with family members and friends. Other hobbies included hunting and fishing and watching sports and NASCAR races. Freeman was a well-known people person and could carry his end of the conversation well. He was fond of animals and cared for many pets throughout the years. He truly loved his family and enjoyed the time they had together, always remembering them on special days such as birthdays and anniversaries. Memories of Freeman will be forever treasured in the hearts and minds of those who loved him. SERVICES Visitation Monday, March 20, 2017 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM First Church of God 1225 Montgomery Drive Charleston, Illinois 61920 Memorial Service Monday, March 20, 2017 4:00 PM First Church of God 1225 Montgomery Drive Charleston, Illinois 61920
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