- Date Of Birth: March 2, 1943
- Date Of Death: July 28, 2016
- State: Georgia
The greatest tribute that can be paid to an individual is to come to the end of his life and know that all his contributions during his life were positive – that he loved others and they loved him – that he proved himself a good provider- that he never took for granted all that life had given him through his hard work – that he left the world a better place for his having been there- that the memories he leaves behind are of his kindness towards everyone. For James Donald Rooks this could truly be said. James was born in Newnan on March 2, 1943 and was one of three children born to the late Leonard Barfield and Cleo Thelma Beckom Rooks.
James grew up in Moreland and attended school in Newnan and for several years tried his hand at a number of small jobs. James was the possessor of a unique work ethic and a desire to be his own boss. This led him in 1978 to form his own company to fill a growing need in the construction business, Rooks Garage Doors. He successfully operated this business and achieved his goal of being able to retire at a young age. During these years it was not uncommon to see this strapping guy who lived in the rough and tumble contracting business to be found delivering the delicate creations of his wife Pat’s florist when an extra hand was needed.
James’ desire in retirement was to be a cowboy, and that he did. After owning his business for over 28 years, he retired in 1999 to the rural beauty of Gay, Georgia to ride herd on his beloved cattle farm. It was there he found the perfect peace in his life and thoroughly enjoyed the last years of his life. It was tending to the farm and tinkering with the multitude of things that needed fixing that brought so much pleasure to this very simply man. In 1962, James had married Patricia Hannah and for the next 54 years they enjoyed a wonderful life together.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children Allen Rooks and his wife Betty Ann; Wayne Rooks and his wife Donna. James was a loving grandfather to Christopher Rooks, Michael Rooks, Hunter Rooks, River Rooks, D’Anna Gray and Daniel Gray. He was great grandfather to Skiilee and Brayden Rooks. Also surviving is his brother Leonard B. Rooks, Jr. and his wife Kay and his sister Patsy Moran.
