In every generation, there are individuals who, though they may walk this Earth for a short time, leave behind an impact that spans far beyond their years. Brooks Michael Prejean was one such soul — a young man whose life, though tragically cut short, continues to ripple through communities, schools, and hearts. For those asking, “Who is Brooks Prejean?”, the answer is layered in his passion, intellect, generosity, and a deep commitment to both personal excellence and service to others.
Early Life and Upbringing
Born on June 3, 2003, in Louisiana, Brooks Prejean grew up surrounded by a loving family and a supportive community that nurtured his talents and values from an early age. From childhood, Brooks exhibited traits of empathy, curiosity, and quiet leadership — qualities that would become the cornerstones of his life.
He was known for his easygoing nature, ever-present smile, and deep sense of compassion. These weren’t just personality traits, but a reflection of the values instilled in him by his family and community — faith, integrity, and a commitment to doing good.
Academic Brilliance at the Episcopal School of Acadiana
Brooks’ academic journey began in earnest when he joined the Episcopal School of Acadiana (ESA) in the third grade. This institution would become not just a place of learning, but a formative environment that helped shape his character and worldview. Throughout his school years, Brooks distinguished himself as a diligent student and a natural leader.
He earned a spot on the Headmaster’s List and was inducted into the National Honor Society — a testament to both his scholastic achievements and moral integrity. Teachers and peers often described him as driven, humble, and incredibly supportive. He was the kind of student who raised the bar without ever making others feel small in comparison.
His intellectual curiosity was boundless, with a special interest in the sciences — something that would later define his academic pursuits at the university level.
Passion for Athletics and Team Spirit
While Brooks excelled in academics, he was equally devoted to sports, particularly basketball. As a key player for the ESA Falcons, Brooks was known not just for his skill on the court but for the integrity with which he played the game. Coaches and teammates recall his strong work ethic, strategic thinking, and unshakable team spirit.
For Brooks, sports weren’t just about competition — they were about collaboration, learning, and shared victories. His sportsmanship stood as a reflection of his broader worldview: that success is sweeter when it’s earned with humility and shared with others.
College Life and Aspirations at LSU
After graduating from ESA in 2021, Brooks enrolled at Louisiana State University (LSU) where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biology. This choice of study aligned with his deep-seated desire to contribute meaningfully to the world, particularly in the areas of health and human welfare.
At LSU, he was an active member of the Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE) fraternity. Within this brotherhood, Brooks was more than just another member — he was a confidant, a motivator, and a friend who many described as “the glue” that held the group together during difficult times.
Balancing fraternity life, rigorous academic demands, and part-time work, Brooks continued to embody the same drive and compassion that defined his earlier years. His presence on campus was noted not only for academic excellence but also for the positive, uplifting energy he brought to every interaction.
A Career Dedicated to Saving Lives
One of the most remarkable aspects of Brooks’ journey was his work as an Organ Recovery Technician at Southern Eye Bank. This role involved coordinating with hospitals, doctors, and families to ensure that life-saving organ donations were handled with care and professionalism.
The position was both emotionally demanding and technically complex, yet Brooks approached it with a maturity beyond his years. His colleagues described him as deeply committed, emotionally intelligent, and remarkably calm under pressure.
In this role, Brooks wasn’t just performing a job — he was fulfilling a calling. He treated every donor and recipient with dignity and saw his work as a bridge between loss and life, grief and hope.
A Life Tragically Cut Short
On September 15, 2024, tragedy struck. At just 21 years old, Brooks Prejean passed away, leaving behind a community shaken and heartbroken. The cause of his untimely passing has not been widely publicized, out of respect for his family’s privacy, but the loss has been deeply felt across Louisiana and beyond.
His passing spurred an outpouring of grief, remembrance, and tribute. Candlelight vigils, social media memorials, and gatherings at LSU and ESA all paid homage to a young man who had touched so many lives. His fraternity brothers at PIKE posted moving tributes, calling him a “light that shined in the darkest of times.”
A Legacy of Kindness and Purpose
In the wake of his death, a GoFundMe campaign titled “Remembering Brooks: A Light That Shines On” was launched to support his family and continue his legacy. Friends, family, classmates, and even strangers contributed, leaving messages of love, admiration, and gratitude.
Brooks’ legacy is not just in the honors he earned or the titles he held — it is in the people he helped, the friendships he forged, and the countless acts of kindness he extended without ever seeking recognition.
To this day, former classmates at ESA speak of him during school assemblies, and students at LSU talk about following in his footsteps. His story serves as a reminder that even a short life can be one of profound meaning and impact.
Remembering Brooks: More Than a Name
Who is Brooks Prejean? He was a scholar, an athlete, a brother, a technician, and above all, a compassionate human being. He represented the very best of what it means to live with purpose. In a world often marked by fleeting distractions, Brooks was grounded, focused, and driven by love — for his work, his peers, and his mission to serve.
His story continues to inspire others to strive for more, to care deeper, and to give back. It reminds us that while life’s timeline is uncertain, the legacy we leave is defined by how we treat others and how we live each day.
In Tribute from Digi Blogs
At Digi Blogs, we believe in highlighting stories that matter — stories that remind us of the power of kindness, the importance of community, and the beauty of a life lived with purpose. Brooks Prejean’s story is all of that and more. As we reflect on his journey, we hope it inspires you to live fully, love deeply, and give generously.
Brooks may be gone, but the light he ignited in this world shines on — in classrooms, on basketball courts, in hospital rooms, and in the hearts of everyone he touched.
