The Rev. James E. Brooking has died. His last pastoral assignment was at West Covina United Methodist Church. He was pastor of Borrego Community United Methodist Church from July 2007 to July 2015.

Pastor Brooking was born on May 25, 1952 in Albany, NY to the late George Brooking and Elizabeth (Butler) Brooking. He died August 31, 2023 after a long illness.

Pastor Brooking was a retired Methodist Pastor, serving various churches with his most recent being West Covina Methodist Church in West Covina, California.

Survivors include brothers William Brooking, Sr. (Kristen), John Brooking (Heike), Ernest Brooking (Pat) and Carl Brooking (late Nadine). James is also survived by lifelong friends Barbara Whittham, Nancy Brown, and Vinnie Jones, along with several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brother Geroge Brooking, sisters-in-law Theresa Brooking (Romano), Nadine Brooking (Olsen) and lifelong friend Norman Burgess.

A Memorial celebration was held in the Rockefeller Funeral Home 165 Columbia Tpke. Rensselaer, NY, with Interment in New Rural Cemetery. He is remembered with affection and gratitude by the members of the Borrego Community United Methodist Church.

One of Pastor Brooking's great legacies to Borrego Springs was his founding of the Borrego Ministers Association, along with the Rev. Laura Brecht of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church and President Geoff Barton of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

We at the BMA and the Borrego churches, especially Community UMC give thanks to the Lord for his service. May he rest in peace with the saints and his memory be eternal.