Claude Leigh Brooke Jr.

Claude Leigh Brooke, Jr., 75, of Brandywine, MD passed away peacefully at home on September 28, 2023. Claude was born on August 29, 1948 in Washington, DC to the late Julia Ida (Reardon) and Claude Leigh Brooke, Sr. Claude was a dedicated hard-working man, often working more than one job at a time to ensure his family was cared for. He had many jobs over the years mostly involving driving and transporting of some sort. Until his health forced him to completely retire, his most recent jobs would be; oil delivery driver for Southern Maryland Oil, and prior to that he was a contractor at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head, MD. He proudly served in the United States Army and later in the Army Reserves. He enjoyed; going to the casino, going on Carnival Cruises, being outside, playing cards and other games with his family, and get-togethers with family and friends. He loved his family especially his grandchildren, and cherished any time he got to spend with them. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Brian C. Brooke; brothers; William “Bill” Brooke, Sr. and Frank Brooke, Sr.; daughter in-law, Emily Wilkerson-Brooke; and brothers in-law; JB Hayes, Paul Hayes, Thomas Hayes, Gilbert “Bug” Hayes, C. Dean Hayes, and Albert Hayes. Claude is survived by his loving and dedicated wife of 49 years, Susan E. (Hayes) Brooke; son, Jeffery “Jeff” J. Brooke and his girlfriend Mindy Sowell; daughter, Diana E. (Brooke) Wilkerson and her husband James “Bobby” R. Wilkerson, III; grandchildren; Victoria L. Brooke, Haley M. Brooke, Gregory J. Brooke, and Libby B. Wilkerson; aunt, Marie Kissinger; brothers in-law; Harold Hayes, and Carl Hayes and his wife Jenny; sisters in-law; Oakie (Hayes) Brearley, Ruby Hayes, and Brenda Hayes; and a large extended family. Family and friends will be received on Saturday, October 21, 2023 from 10:00 AM until time of service at 12:00 PM at Raymond Funeral Service, P.A., 5635 Washington Avenue, La Plata, MD 20646. A private Interment will be at a later date at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Claude’s name are asked to St. Mary’s Ryken Softball Program, 22600 Camp Calvert Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650. All donations will go towards the field and softball facility upgrades.

Claude Leigh Brooke Jr.

August 29, 1948 - September 28, 2023