1. Arkansas chief deputy attorney general Brooks death
2. Chief deputy attorney general Brooks passes away at 61 in Arkansas.
Arkansas Chief Deputy Attorney General Bob R. Brooks Jr. Passes Away at 61
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Bob R. Brooks Jr., the chief deputy attorney general of Arkansas. Attorney General Tim Griffin shared this heartbreaking news, revealing that Brooks died suddenly on Sunday at the age of 61.
Remembering a Dedicated Public Servant
Born and raised in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Bob Brooks had been serving as the chief deputy attorney general since his appointment by Tim Griffin at the start of Griffin’s term in 2023. With a passion for law and a commitment to public service, Brooks had dedicated his career to upholding justice and advocating for the people of Arkansas.
A Sudden Tragedy
Attorney General Griffin expressed his devastation upon learning of Brooks’ passing, emphasizing their close friendship that spanned decades. To Griffin and his family, Brooks was not just a colleague but a beloved member of their own family. His sudden demise has left a void that will be difficult to fill.
According to Griffin, Brooks had been feeling unwell in the days leading up to his passing and sought medical care on Friday. Sadly, his condition took a turn for the worse, and he passed away early Sunday morning. Brooks is survived by his parents and a sister, who are undoubtedly devastated by this unexpected loss.
A Lifelong Friendship
In a phone interview, Attorney General Griffin reminisced about his enduring friendship with Brooks. They first met in the mid-1990s when Brooks served as the chief of staff for then-Arkansas congressman Jay Dickey, and Griffin was a young attorney starting his career in Washington, D.C. Their paths crossed again during their time at the Republican National Committee.
Brooks’ dedication to public service shone through his appointments, including being named the first director of the Arkansas Ethics Commission by then-Governor Mike Huckabee. However, his true passion lay in his role at the attorney general’s office, where he worked tirelessly to uphold the law and protect the rights of the people of Arkansas.
A Remarkable Legal Mind
Griffin fondly remembered Brooks’ unmatched depth and breadth of knowledge in Arkansas jurisprudence and politics. With a photographic memory for numbers, stats, and data, Brooks wowed everyone in meetings with his encyclopedic knowledge.
Griffin recounted an incident during an interview for his staff, where Brooks astounded an interviewee with his knowledge of their current salary. His attention to detail and commitment to his work were truly remarkable.
A Loss That Cannot Be Replaced
Attorney General Griffin acknowledged the immense challenge of finding a replacement for Brooks. His wealth of experience and expertise would be sorely missed, making it nearly impossible for one person to fill his shoes.
State Senator Ben Gilmore, who had the privilege of knowing Brooks for five years, spoke highly of his character and influence in his life. Gilmore considered Brooks a close friend and confidant, always there to offer guidance and support.
A Life of Achievement
Brooks’ educational background included graduating from the prestigious Sam M. Walton School of Business at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, and the University of Tulsa College of Law. He served as the chief of staff to U.S. Representative Jim McCrery, a prominent member of the House Ways and Means Committee.
Bob R. Brooks Jr. leaves behind a legacy of public service, dedication, and a commitment to upholding justice. His sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew and worked with him. Arkansas mourns the loss of a respected legal mind and a true advocate for the people.
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– Arkansas chief deputy attorney general
– Brooks dies at 61.
