Donavan Marquese Brooks

Donovan Marquese Brooks, affectionately known as "Donny," the beloved son of Candace J. Edwards and André L. Brooks, was born on January 21, 1999. He departed this life on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Donny received his formal education via the Public School System of Baltimore, Maryland. He was extremely intelligent and a very deep thinker. During his high school years, he attended Mervo Technical High as a freshman and was ranked the number 1 student. As a result of his stellar record, he was recommended to Calvert Hall; however, Donny ultimately chose Polytechnic High School where he excelled in English, Science, and Mathematics. He graduated with honors June 2017. Needless to say, Donny was known for his generosity, caring heart, and intellectual mind. Whenever Donny entered the room, you felt his presence. He was the life of the parties and no one escaped his infectious laugh and brilliant smile. Donny was born with an old soul and if he chose you, you were really special to him. He was so easy to love and give in return. Donny was mannerable, respectful, and most of all a "hugger." He loved to greet you with a hug and when you said, "I love you Donny," he would wrap his arms around you and respond, "I love you more." Donny loved spending time with his family, especially his grandmother Jean and his aunts, uncles, and the cousins he grew up with. The trips to Virginia and Bowie, Maryland with family were an important part of his life. He also enjoyed special moments with his grandmother Sheila. During these times they shared tips on life, love, and the importance of staying in shape physically and representing one's self in a neat and respectful manner. Grandma Sheila always encouraged Donny to remain positive and always put his best foot forward. Donny was an avid sports fan. He truly loved the game of football and his favorite team was the Kansas City Chiefs. He enjoyed watching the games with his granddad Lee and bantering back and forth about the plays and the end results. Donny worked for various companies in and around Baltimore City to include Auto Key, Shoe City as Assistant Manager and at Five Guys as Store Manager. He also engaged in other employment opportunities utilizing various other skill sets with regard to repair and the Wi-Fi with his cousin Keenan whom he considered as a brother. Donovan pushed for the life he desired for himself. To describe him in a single word is near impossible! Intelligent... yes, loving and kind... yes, funny... yes, athletic... yes, determined... yes, giving... yes, quiet... occasionally. Great driver... well not quite! But. nobody's perfect! Donny had a quiet strength that showed without boasting, an intellect that lured you to challenge and a heart of gold that deserved protecting. Simply stated: Donny was a good guy who was loved and respected by everyone that knew him. Donovan was preceded in death by his father, André L. Brooks. He leaves to cherish his memory: his mother Candace J. Edwards; sisters Chayah and Ja'Anti; grandparents Lee Brooks (Régina), Sheila Brown, Joan Smith (Wayne); uncles Eric "E" Brown, Alvin Smith, Justin Brown, Mark White, William Smith, Wayne Smith Jr., Ozzie Israel; aunts Angelica Edwards, Cassie White, and Jade Smith; a special cousin-brother Keenan Fletcher; best friend Jamel Fahir; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Donavan Marquese Brooks

January 21, 1999 - December 17, 2025