John Spencer Brookbank, Jr.

John Spencer Brookbank, Jr., aged 94, of Sandy Spring, MD, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026 at home surrounded by loved ones.

John was born on August 5, 1931 in Washington, D.C. to Marguerite and John Brookbank, Sr. John graduated from Montgomery Blair High School in 1949 where he was a member of the Track Team. John attained his undergraduate degree at University of MD. He then pursued and attained his law degree from George Washington University Law School and was admitted to the Bar of the District of Columbia in October 1956. After earning his law degree, John was called to active duty as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force where he served a two-year tour of active duty. He was stationed at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He also served in the JAG office as Trial and Defense Counsel. When he left the Air Force, he worked at the FCC as well as additional government agencies. He retired from NOAA in 1989 where he served as legal counsel to the weather service for 12 years.

John was a man who found his greatest joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life—whether hiking along quiet trails, going for a run through his favorite paths, going to Bethany Beach, or working outdoors with his hands. He cherished time spent with his family above all else, filling those moments with laughter and warmth. Known for his quick wit and love of telling jokes, he had a way of lifting spirits even on the hardest days. A true gentleman in every sense, he treated others with respect, kindness, and quiet grace. His favorite reminder, “You have to keep your sense of humor,” was more than just a saying—it was how he lived his life, with resilience, kindness, and compassion.

John is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Lyda Brookbank; their children: John Spencer Brookbank III (Renee) and Suzanne Heath (Brian), five grandchildren: Lindsey Ruhe (Brandon), John Spencer Brookbank IV (Drew), Sydney Lew (Cameron), Brett Heath and Taylor Heath, and five great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Pauls United Methodist Church, 10401 Armory Ave, Kensington, MD 20895, on Friday, March 27. Visitation will be held from 4:00-5:00 pm, a service following from 5:00-6:00 pm, ending with a reception between 6:00-7:30 pm. Burial will be private.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Family & Nursing Care and Montgomery & Prince Georges Hospice for the compassion, dignity, and gentle care they provided. Their kindness and support brought comfort and peace during a difficult time, and will always be remembered with deep appreciation. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Montgomery & Prince Georges Hospice in John’s name https://montgomeryhospice.org.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Spencer Brookbank, Jr., please visit our floral store.