Mr. X'antony Benoit Brookens

On Thursday, September 26, 1968, X’antony Benoit Brookens Sr. was born to Theresa Brookens in Madison, WI. X’antony received his formal education at Emerson Preparatory College, in Washington D.C. Coming from a family who values education, X’antony, a lifelong learner, furthered his education at Harvard University and University of Wisconsin-Madison. Acceptance to both internationally ranked institutions are a testament to his intellect, tenacity, and determination. X’antony accepted Christ as his Savior at a young age. Heeding his call, he walked in the steps Jesus laid out for him, attending various churches and mosques along his spiritual journey. In February of 2000, X’antony completed ordination requirements and was licensed to preach by Bishop William J. Strong of Greater New Bethel Full Gospel Baptist Church. At the time of his departure, he was an active member of Ascension Fellowship Church in Milwaukee, where he willfully and excitedly served in the roles of trustee, security, and audio-visual management. X’antony would always greet you with a smile; assist his “Mothers Board” to their favorite seats; and ensure the young men of the church maintained their assigned posts, while demonstrating self-discipline in God’s house. On March 10th of 2006, X’antony Brookens married “his soul mate” Latisha Spence- Brookens. To this union, blended a family of three girls and one boy, making X’antony a proud father of four. X’antony lived an amazing life! He lived in Holland, within the Netherlands, Washington D.C., Boston, MA, and Madison, WI-before solidifying roots in Milwaukee, WI. With a heart of service, he was committed to working in Workforce Development, to help others in his community improve their economic positioning and self-sufficiency. As an Apprenticeship Training Representative with the State of Wisconsin, X’antony focused his efforts on the inclusion of people within the trades. His passion and authenticity were felt by all blessed to experience him. “When you do what you love, it’s not working,” he would often say. With impeccable conduct, work ethic, resourcefulness, and transparency, he created a reputation within the city of being a “go to resource” when individuals needed assistance, career counseling, and/or guidance. In his spare time, X’antony was an avid fisherman, searching out local watering holes and taking impromptu getaways; there he would find peace by the water with his pole and music. X’antony, a music buff, founded Blaqlizt Music Entertainment, giving young people the opportunity to develop and hone in on their musical and poetic talents in his home studio. He was also a fantastic cook who could knock the socks off of a culinary rival with his curry chicken, bean soup, or beef ribs. He was masterful in the kitchen, knowing what spices went together and quickly pointing out “recipes are for rookies!” To balance out all of his culinary magic, you might find him on the basketball court, early summer mornings, hacking his family and friends under the guise of defense. He was also an outspoken supporter of his people, intentionally seeking out minority owned businesses on his weekends to support and promote change through personal investment. X’antony found peace in the arms of the Lord on the evening of January 27, 2021. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Benoit Otis and Ruthia Mae Brookens, and his uncle, Lloyd Brookens. To forever cherish his memory, he leaves his wife, Latisha Spence-Brookens of Menomonee Falls, WI; his three daughters, Kierra Burton-Brookens of Gaithersburg, MD, Jamila O’Dea- Brookens of Stoughton, WI, and Zaria Brookens of Menomonee Falls, WI; one namesake son, X’antony Jr. of Menomonee Falls, WI; one grandson, Xavion Ulysse of Gaithersburg, MD; his mother, Theresa Brookens of Milwaukee, WI; and his brother, Clinton King of Madison, WI; alongside a host of loving relatives, dear friends, and the Ascension Fellowship Church Family.

Mr. X'antony Benoit Brookens

September 26, 1968 - January 27, 2021