Prince William County lost a local civil rights leader and activist in Albert E. Brooks, who passed away at the age of 77.

Known for his tireless activism and extraordinary stories, Brooks was instrumental in opening doors for Black men wherever he ventured. Born in 1943, he grew up in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn. Brooks met several historical figures in his youth, from Malcolm X to a young Aretha Franklin when he went to Detroit. Soon, he moved back to the state of New York, but this time went to Buffalo where he was involved in the local NAACP chapter. This led him on the path to where he would work under famed civil rights activist A. Phillip Randolph. From there he continued to push for equality in the job market for Black people. Later on he came to the Woodbridge area, where both he and longtime Dumfries Councilman Willie Toney formed the African American Democratic Club. He lived in the Neabsco area but served throughout the county.

Brooks’ life could best be described as one who loved his community and always advocated for better opportunities for Black people. His determination for justice was only exceeded by his willingness to serve. The impact of Albert Brooks’ life will continue to be felt in the presence of those here in Prince William County and beyond. He is survived by his wife Barbara and several children as well as grandchildren.

Dumfries Councilwoman Selonia Miles released the following statement. “Mr. Brooks dedicated his entire life to protecting the rights of an empowering Black people. We could not have made any of the progress we have made in Prince William County in the last 30+ years without his leadership, and for that an entire generation of leaders owes him a debt of gratitude that we can only repay by continuing his legacy of service.”

“We send prayers of comfort to Mrs. Barbara Brooks and the entire Brooks family during this difficult time.”

Below was a recent interview conducted on his life and lessons he shared for future generations.