Marrell Brooks

Marrell La’Ron Brooks Marrell was born on January 30, 1985. He lived in St. Louis, Missouri with his mother Mary Ann Brooks and his grandmother, Margaret Brooks. On March 4, 1991, at age 6, Marrell moved to Pony Bird, where he was loved and cared for over the last 32 years. His bright smile was always freely given to anyone he encountered, and he quickly became beloved by his Pony Bird family.

Marrell embodied a beautiful simplicity with his gentle spirit. He was such an easygoing young man, always joyful, spontaneous, and his face would light up when interacting with others in his home or community. He often filled the room with smiles and the pleasant rhythm of his maracas.

Early on Marrell developed a beautiful bond with Amy James during her employment at Pony Bird. Amy continued to be a strong advocate and friend for him after she left Pony Bird, and on November 1, 2010, she was granted guardianship of Marrell. Their bond has truly been like mother and son. Marrell became a very important member of the whole family, Amy, husband Roger, and sons Balan and Tyson.

Marrell passed away at Mery Jefferson in the ICU on July 28, 2023, surrounded by his guardian Amy James, and many of his Pony Bird friends and family. Marrell was preceded in death by his mother Mary Brooks and grandmother Margaret Brooks.

Marrell will be lovingly remembered and missed by his Aunt Cynthia, Aunt Earnestine, and brother Terrell; Amy, Roger, Balan and Tyson; his roommates and housemates; and his entire Pony Bird family. We are grateful for the gift he brought to this world!