Terrance "Chet" Donnell Brooks

Terrance Donnell "Chet" Brooks was born on January 1, 1966, to Charles Brooks and Mary Ellen (Hall) Brooks in Midland, Texas. On January 16, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, he transitioned to eternity.

Chet, as he became affectionately known, was a natural athletic scholar. He graduated from Carter High School in 1984. He continued his higher education at Texas A&M University, where he attended on a football scholarship, graduating in 1988. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 1988 NFL Draft, Chet went on to play in the NFL and won two Super Bowls. 

On August 29, 2002, Terrance married the love of his life, Newartha "Nikki" Rollins. The two remained united in love until his transition. 

Terrance accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior as a child. His faith remained steadfast throughout life, and he exhibited love and devotion to his family and community. 

Chet, as he became affectionately known, established a legacy of excellence at both the collegiate and professional levels. A standout safety at Texas A&M, Chet was an All-American and All-SWC selection who anchored the defense during the Aggies' historic run of three consecutive Southwest Conference Championships and Cotton Bowl appearances (1985–87). After being selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the 1988 NFL Draft, he went on to win two Super Bowl rings and earned a spot on the prestigious All-Madden Team in 1989. His storied career is commemorated in both the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame (2009) and the Texas A&M Athletics Hall of Fame (2011).

Following his retirement from the NFL, Chet transitioned into the real estate industry, where he focused on developing both affordable and custom homes throughout the DFW area. His success in residential construction eventually led him to specialize in the Real Estate Owned (REO) sector, where he brought his expertise to property management and investment.

When his son, Terrance, decided to take up football, Chet's primary focus was his son’s safety. He personally coached and trained  Terrance from Little League through his junior year of high school, prioritizing proper technique and fundamentals. This commitment to the integrity of the game eventually expanded Chet’s reach, allowing him to build lasting relationships with athletes and families across the country.

With generosity at the core of his heart, Chet also enjoyed a career as a high school coach and mentor. He joined the staff of Little Elm High School in 2021. He was later recognized by the Town of Little Elm for his exceptional leadership and the strong bonds he formed within Little Elm High School. Nominated for this recognition by school officers, he was celebrated for his tireless commitment to campus safety and his gift for mentorship. His role in fostering a supportive and secure environment was an inspiration to students and staff alike.

While his athletic career and career off the field were legendary, Chet’s greatest achievements were found within his own home. He was, above all, a devoted husband, son, father, and brother—a cornerstone of strength who led his family and served his community with unwavering integrity. He will be fondly remembered for his love of music, reading, and all things football. His humorous, selfless, and consistent nature will continue to impact those who crossed his path, and his loving and compassionate spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Chet was preceded in death by his father, Charles Brooks, Sr.; brother, Charles Brooks Jr.; sister, Sandra Dewitt; sister, Velma Brooks; and mother-in-law, Muriel Alexander. 

Those left to cherish lasting memories include his wife, Newartha “Nikki” Brooks; his mother, Mary Ellen Brooks; his children, Terrance Nicholas Brooks, Chaneal Brooks, Cassie Jaiyesimi, Anastasia Shawback, Devin Starnes, Brittany Archangel, and Adrian Rollins; his siblings, Vonda Brooks, Tony Brooks, Roedwin Brooks, and Sheila Brooks; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Oswald Rollins and Eva Rollins; his uncle, William Brooks; his aunt, Brenda Brooks-Jordan; his sisters- and brothers-in-law, Akita Patterson, Ruth Brooks, Bobbie Brooks, Joemen Rollins, Jonathan Rollins, and Justin Rollins; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  

All are welcome to join us via live stream on this memorial page at

1:00 PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 24, 2026, as we celebrate the life of our beloved Terrance.

(Live stream services provided by Friendship West Baptist Church and On D Scene Photo and Video.)

Chet's Celebration of Life Service for

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