Thomas Cleon Brooks was born October 25, 1964, in Sandersville, GA to the late Alonzo Cleon Brooks and Caroline Pressel Brooks. After graduating from Eustis High School in Eustis, FL, Tom pursued a career in radio and acting, working several years at WLOQ and other stations before landing the role of Tully in the Ghostbusters show at Universal Studios. He eventually moved into the “Fire Department”, which was an elite group of actors who could be called upon at a moment’s notice to cover live actor shows such as “Hitchcock – The Art of Making Movies”, the “Horror Make-up Show”, and “Murder She Wrote Mystery Theater”. Tom also played the lead role in a local production of “A Few Good Men” in the early 90’s. Not only was he a great actor, but he was also an accomplished drummer. One of Tom’s highlights early in his career was combining his acting and music skills playing a drummer on an episode of the sitcom Frazier during the time period that he lived in California.
Upon returning to the Orlando area, Tom found his real home at Disney where he was the warm-up host for American Idol for several years. Most recently his brilliant comedy could be found on the Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor where Tom’s amazing comedic timing and quick wit filled up the “laugh can”. While Tom loved performing, he more so valued the friendships that he made with his co-workers. His compassion and listening ear were valued by so many who knew and loved him. Tom had a deep faith in God, and he loved his family. Tom remained close to his sister, Mary, even though they lived in different states. He is survived by his sister Mary Brooks of Raleigh, NC, an Aunt & Uncle and 3 cousins in Indiana, several relatives in Georgia, and countless friends.
A service celebrating his life will be held at First Baptist Orlando in the Marie Williams Chapel on Saturday, October 22.