PASSING OF MR JOHN BROOKS

Some sad news Mr John Brooks former Trustee, Chairman and finally Treasurer of FONFA passed away on Thursday 30th October 2025 after a long illness.

He devoted a lot of time of FONFA being involved from the creation of the memorial completed in 2002 to the creation of the Heritage Centre completed in 2016. Between these dates he was tireless in the support of the organisation.

This meant involvement in an outreach program using talks, exhibitions and fairs as well as the internet to tell the story of the New Forest Airfields . In 2008 in rooms adjacent their office in Merryfield Park(ex RAF Sopley), John helped open the New Forest Education Centre the forerunner of our present Heritage Centre.

As well as attending events to raise funds for FONFA, with his electrical background, he helped in installing the electrics in the present Heritage Centre. He also created the audio PA system used at memorial services and events.

He even installed the electrics for our long term supporter Wessex Fire and Rescue Service when they were at Sopley camp .

He spent many hours at the museum as well as putting the flags out for the services held at the memorial. He also help keep the memorial in pristine condition.

It is impossible to quantify the contribution John made to create the FONFA we have today.

John Brooks Funeral is on Monday 17th November at 3pm at the New Forest Crematorium and Memorial Gardens,

Stem Lane, New Milton BH25 5FH

We hope anyone who knew him will be able attend. The family have kindly asked for donations to be made to us ,a gesture most appreciated.

Please click below to read the obituary for John Brooks, written by Henry, our life president.