James “Jim” Brooks

James “Jim” Brooks, 68, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, in Cary, North Carolina. Born on September 18, 1957, in Lowell, Massachusetts, Jim grew up in Westford, Massachusetts before settling in Merrimack, New Hampshire, where he raised his family. In later years, he embraced the warmer climate of Cary, though his heart remained loyal to New England sports teams.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Sandy Brooks; his children, James Brooks (Vanessa), Alexander Brooks (Tiffany), and Andrea Brooks; his sister, Mandi Coulouras (James); his niece, Dimara Coulouras; his nephew, Stephen Van Cuylenburg; his aunts, Barbara Lawrence and Mary Pearson; and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Katherine Kimball; his sister, Linda Van Cuylenburg; and his brother, Glenn Brooks.

Jim built a distinguished career spanning more than 38 years in the mortgage and real estate industry, leaving a lasting impact on both the New England and North Carolina markets.

Jim’s commitment to his community was unwavering. In Merrimack, he coached numerous youth sports teams through the Merrimack Youth Association (MYA) and served on the MYA Soccer board in the 1990s. His passion for mentorship extended to Mt. St. Mary’s High School (now Bishop Guertin) in Nashua, where he guided athletes to state championships in girls’ track and field in 1990 and 1991. Jim’s infectious spirit and dedication touched countless lives, making him a beloved figure to many.

A celebration of his life will be held on May 2, 2026, at the John O’Leary Community Center at 4 Church St. in Merrimack, NH, from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Jim’s generous spirit and lifelong commitment to youth athletics by mailing a donation to the Merrimack Road Runners Booster Club Merrimack Road Runners Booster Club, PO Box 1456, Merrimack, NH 03054 or online at https://runsignup.com/Race/Donate/NH/Merrimack/MerrimackSparkler5kRunWalk