Rev. Dr. Kimberly Brooks

Rev. Dr. Kimberly “Kimba” Brooks

Rev. Dr. Kimberly Brooks, affectionately known as “Kimba” by those closest to him, was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on October 21, 1956, to Jessie and Rebecca Brooks, who both preceded him in death. developed a love for Jesus early in life that would guide him throughout his journey.

He was a proud graduate of Harrisburg High School, Class of 1975. He went on to earn an Associate of Science degree in Behavioral Sciences from Harrisburg Area Community College in 1984. In May 1986, he received a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry, with concentrations in Christian Counseling and Psychology, from Southern Baptist Seminary.

In April 1999, Kimberly was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, an experience that became a turning point in his life and spiritual journey. During his recovery, he discerned a calling to be a priest. With remarkable dedication and tenacity, he pursued the necessary education and formation to answer that call.

In May 2002, he graduated summa cum laude from Lancaster Bible College with a Bachelor of Arts in Bible Theology and Christian Counseling. He earned his Master of Divinity from Lancaster Theological Seminary in 2005. Continuing his theological studies, he obtained a postgraduate degree in Anglican Studies from Virginia Episcopal Theological Seminary in May 2007. In 2008, he completed his Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling and Psychology, graduating magna cum laude from Newburgh Theological Seminary.

During his theological education, Kimberly served as an intern at St. James Episcopal Church in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Upon completion of his studies, he was ordained to Deacon on June 9, 2007, and assigned to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Harrisburg, where he was ordained to the priest on February 9, 2008.

At St. Paul’s, he became lovingly known as “Father Kim.” Following the completion of his doctoral studies, he was recognized as The Rev. Dr. Kimberly Brooks. He later served as Canon Priest at St. Stephen’s Cathedral and faithfully ministered as a supply and interim priest throughout the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania until his retirement. Kimberly and his wife later fellowshipped at St. Andrew’s in the Valley Episcopal Church.

Kimberly loved preaching, and this north star was the Gospels of Jesus. It was within those sacred texts that he rooted his faith and drew the messages he so passionately shared with the many congregations he ministered.

Before fully entering ordained ministry, Kimberly also served in pastoral leadership. From 1980 to 1983, he was Associate Pastor at The First Baptist Church in Steelton, Pennsylvania, and in 1984, he served as Pastor of the United Missionary Baptist Church in Harrisburg. Professionally, he dedicated 20 years as a fuel injection engineer at Mack Truck, beginning his career there in 1979.

Outside of his professional and ministerial life, Kimberly had a love for baseball from a young age, practicing diligently with aspirations of playing professionally. He played for a time on semi-professional team associated with the Cincinnati Reds and played for the Harrisburg Senators. He also had a passion for motorcycles and enjoyed spending time at racetracks among fellow riders. Following his accident, he was no longer able to participate in the sports he loved, yet he often reflected that the experience led him to his calling and ultimately to meeting his beloved wife, Andrea.

Kimberly was a man of many talents, steadfast in his love of Christ, and deeply devoted to theology and the Gospel was faithful servant, loving husband, father, Boppa, brother, and friend, Kimberly cherished his family and lived a life marked by purpose, perseverance, and faith, and consistently encouraged his children and grandchildren to strive for excellence, remain resilient, and never give up.

Kimberly leaves to celebrate his life and memory his devoted wife of 12 years, Andrea; his daughter, Elisheva Zaman (Khan); his sons, Anthony Brooks and Kimberly Brooks Jr.; his grandchildren, Rylei and Amanda; his stepchildren, Armone Hammonds (Alesha) and Cheryl Westmoreland; his bonus grandchildren, Adonis, Armone Jr., Avah, Jacquan, Armani, Trelon, and Tanisha; his sisters, Helen Parham, Minister Eva Everett (Deacon Dannie), Cynthia Brooks (Thomas), and Barbara Brown (Rev. Dr. Tracy); his brother, Anthony Brooks (Camille); and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Yvonne Davis; and his brothers, including his twin, Kelvin Brooks, Jessie R. Brooks, and John Brooks.

Kimberly’s life stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and the power of answering God’s call.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Lovingly Submitted by the Family