James "Richard" Brooks, 77, of Wichita, Kansas, previously of Atlanta, passed away Tuesday morning, March 20, 2018.

Born June 15, 1940 in Yates Center, Kansas, he was the son of Durl and Pansy (Bellinger) Brooks. He was raised and received his education in Yates Center, graduating from Yates Center High School. He went on to attend Friends University on a football scholarship, and obtained his Bachelor Degree. Richard married his high school sweetheart, Wilma "Elaine" Caudell on June 4, 1960. The couple lived in Bronson, Elsmore, Pretty Prairie and Turon while Richard taught high school biology and was a football and basketball coach. They moved to Newton for a year before making their home in Atlanta. Richard worked at Citizens State Bank in Atlanta and Winfield for many years and later worked at Farm Bureau in Winfield for a short time. Elaine preceded him in death on September 30, 2017.

Richard was passionate about sports, in particular football. He was an avid Kansas City Chiefs and Royals fan and frequently watched the games with family. His love for sports was passed on to his family and whenever possible, Richard tried to attend his children and grandchildren's sporting and school events. Richard loved his family and had a walk with the Lord that guided him in his life. He was a member of Cornerstone Christian Church in Atlanta and served on the elder board and was a 55-year member of the Masonic Lodge. He was active in the Atlanta community, serving on the USD 462 Recreation Commission and was Mayor at one point. He was always promoting something in the community. He loved to fish and hunt and raised English setter bird dogs.

Richard's family includes:
His son: Jay Brooks of Jenks, OK;
His daughters: Pam Boucher and husband, Jack of Wichita; Sherri Oliver and husband, Mike of Harmony, NC;
His siblings: Judy (Dave) Robinson and Dan (Marylin) Brooks
His grandchildren: Bailey and Garrett Brooks, Chelsea (Eric) Haley, Ryan (Annie) Boucher, Ashley (Jarrel) Warren, Alysia (Charles) Eller, John (Chelsea) Oliver;
His great grandchildren: Everly, Jack, Kate, Morgan and Emily Elaine; and
His numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Richard was preceded in death by his sister, Coleen Robbins.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 24, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. at Miles Funeral Service. Interment will follow at the Atlanta Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Saturday prior to the service beginning at 9:00 A.M.

Memorials have been established in Richard's name for Cornerstone Christian Church in Atlanta and for the Parkinson's Foundation. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.