Lester Kent Brooks

Lester “Kent” Brooks, age 81, passed away suddenly on October 4, 2024, in St. George, Utah. Born on April 9, 1943, in Lehi, Utah, he was the beloved son of Joey and Ruth (Burch) Brooks.

Kent grew up in American Fork, Utah, where he attended and graduated from American Fork High School. It was there that he met his future bride, Patsy (Pat) Small. Pat had a love for dancing, so with a little encouragement from his parents who knew they were meant for each other, Kent took ballroom dance lessons, paving the way for a beautiful romance. They were married in the St. George temple on September 19, 1962.

After their wedding, Kent and Pat moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where Kent began his career as an electrical engineer for EG&G. He dedicated 45 years of his life to maintaining electrical equipment and later as a supervisor at the Nevada test site. He worked for a few more years as a consultant before finally retiring. Not long after retiring Pat and Kent fulfilled their dream of settling in New Harmony, Utah, where they have enjoyed breathtaking views of the Five Fingers of Kolob from their back deck.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Kent served in various leadership roles, including Bishop and on the Stake High Council. He loved spending time outdoors, whether it was fly fishing, backpacking in the Uintah mountains, or camping with Pat in their travel trailer. In his later years, he found joy in gardening and taking scenic rides with Pat on their ATVs, exploring the beautiful mountains around them.

Kent’s greatest love, however, was his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Pat; his daughters Krista Brooks, Kari (Michael) Palmeri, and Kandice (Erin) O’Hayer; sons Russell (Sandi), Roger (Laura), Ryan (Belinda), and Regan (Marinda) Brooks; 16 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way. He is also survived by his brother William “Bill” Brooks, and his sister Maryjo (Brooks) Greenwood.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 19, at 11:00 AM at the New Harmony meeting house. A viewing for family and friends will take place on Friday, October 18, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, and again prior to the services on Saturday from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at the New Harmony cemetery under the direction of Cedar Valley Funeral and Cremation, 2086 North Main Street, Cedar City, Utah (435-865-9000).

Kent’s legacy of love, family, and friendship will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.