Brookshire Lee Osborn

Brookshire Lee “Brooks” Osborn (age 66), a resident of La Mesa, CA, passed away unexpectedly on January 18, 2025, in San Diego, CA, after a brief illness. Though his departure leaves a significant void in the hearts of those who knew him, his legacy of love, laughter and kindness will continue to shine brightly.

Brooks was born in Jackson, Tennessee on September 9, 1958. He accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized at Mother Liberty Church. A deeply spiritual man, Brooks loved God and exemplified unwavering faith, which permeated his actions and manifested as insightful guidance and wisdom to those around him.

He completed his secondary education at Jackson Central-Merry High School in 1976. Following a year of attendance at Jackson State Community College, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisted in the United States Navy and served four years. Brooks' post-naval career commenced in San Diego, California, a city where fate led him to meet the love of his life, his wife, Shirell Nowden. Their 37-year union was marked by joy, adventure, and an enduring bond that inspired all who knew them.

Brooks demonstrated a steadfast commitment to both his family and his professional pursuits. He had a 26-year career at PepsiCo and retired with numerous accolades for his commitment and hard work. Never one to sit still and driven by an active spirit, he pursued a further fulfilling career for 20 years at NAVFAC on the Coronado Naval Base, retiring on December 31, 2024.

Beyond his professional achievements, Brooks was a man who cherished every moment of life. He was known for his infectious smile, fun-loving spirit, and uncompromising honesty. He found joy in sports, staying up on current events, and fashion. He also loved and dedicated considerable time to his family and friends, creating lasting memories that will be treasured forever.

Brooks lived a life defined by purpose, passion, and love. He was a devoted husband, son, father, and family member. He lived a life full of happiness, adventure, and faith. His presence brightened every room, his smile filled every heart, and his kindness lifted every soul. Brooks taught us to embrace each day with gratitude, to love hard, to smile and laugh often, and to cherish the people who matter most.

Left to treasure his memory are his beloved wife, Shirell Nowden Osborn, and his loving mother, Mildred Osborn. Among his survivors are his cherished son, Victor D. James; daughter-in-law, Sandy James; grandchildren, Marcus Baker and Diego James, who he adored; his two sisters, Carolyn Nesbitt and Mattie Thomas; sisters-in-law, Denise Davis, Anita Robinson and Rochelle Moody, and brothers-in-law Pheon Davis, James Chris Larkins, and Charles Sloan; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, his lifelong friends Danny and Bobbie Shields, and many other dear friends.

Brooks was preceded in death by his father, Brookshire "BL" Gilmore, and his two brothers, David Osborn Jr. and Davan Weddle.

Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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