With heavy hearts, AARC honors the life and legacy of Charlie G. Brooks, Jr., EdD, RRT, FAARC, who passed away peacefully on April 4, 2025. As a clinician, leader, educator, author, and visionary in respiratory care, Dr. Brooks served the profession with grace and unmatched dedication for more than 50 years. In addition to his numerous achievements in education and volunteerism, Dr. Brooks was an AARC Fellow, 1996 AARC President, and longtime NBRC Board member.
His impact lives on through his teachings, publications, and the countless lives he touched. He was a proud Nashville, Tennessee native and Vanderbilt University graduate. He worked as a respiratory therapist and teacher, receiving many professional accolades, including the Volunteer of the Year for the Middle Tennessee Chapter of the American Lung Association of Tennessee, Volunteer of the Year for the American Heart Association of Tennessee, Outstanding Service Award from the AARC, and 2018 National Honorary Member, Lambda Beta Society, the National Honor Association for the Profession of Respiratory Care. Dr. Brooks also presented more than 400 lectures throughout the United States, Canada, and the Philippines, spreading expert advice for leadership, education, clinical management of respiratory care, and general healthcare. His obituary can be found here.
