Mr. Clarence L. Brooks, Sr., age 95 of Gaston, NC, departed this life peacefully at his home on Sunday, July 22, 2012.

Clarence, a son of Napoleon and Rachel Gholson Brooks, was born October 8, 1916 in Northampton County, NC.

He received his formal education through the public schools of Northampton County.

At an early age he accepted Christ, was baptized and joined Gaston Baptist Church where he remained a faithful member until his health began to fail.

With the God-given gift of music, he was very accomplished in playing the piano, accordion, harmonica and other instruments as well.

He was united in Holy Matrimony to Hazel Squire for 74 years and God blessed their union with four children. His wife and son, Clarence Lone Brooks, Jr., preceded her in death. He was also preceded in death by two grandchildren: Ricky and Alemta; two great-grandchildren: Tamara and Brianna and two brothers: Edward Brooks and Robert Lee Brooks.

Treasured memories will remain with his daughters: Ethel B. Vincent, Nolean B. Clayton and Odessa B. Johnson (Grady), all of Gaston, NC; twenty grandchildren, thirty-four great-grandchcildren and seven great-great-grandchildren; two sistes: Millie B. Clayton of Gaston, NC and Margie B. Williams of Lexington, NC; three brothers: Rufus Brooks (Odell), John Brooks (Naomi) and William Brooks (Annie), all of Gaston, NC; in-laws: Virginia Brooks and Mazie Price of Gaston, NC, Elizabeth Goins (James) of Pleasant Hill, NC and Sarah A. Lawson (Calvin) of Baltimore, MD; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Homegoing Services will be held on Friday, July 27, 2012 at 12:00 Noon from the sanctuary of Gaston Missionary Baptist Church, Gaston, NC. The Pastor, Rev. Dr. Tony M. Flood, Sr. will bring words of comfort.

Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

The Cofield Family and Staff extends their heartfelt sympathy and continued support to the Brooks Family during and after this period of bereavement.