John was born in Tonbridge High Street above his father's shop, but grew up on Lavender Hill with his parents William and Rose and his brothers and sisters (Ivy, William, Dorothy and David). He went to the Slade Primary School before following in his brother's footsteps to attend the Judd School. He loved his National Service in the Royal Air Force serving locally at West Malling before being posted to Gutersloh, Germany.

John met his future wife, Molly, at the church youth club when they were still teenagers and married on 4th July 1956 at Tonbridge Parish Church. John and Molly had two children, Daphne and John and were proud grandparents to Rob, Natalie, Kelly and James.  

John always had an interest in local government and became a Tonbridge Urban District Councillor. He was extremely honoured to be elected as Chairman of the council from 1970 to 1971.

He served Tonbridge in many ways and in addition to his council work he was a youth club leader, Group Scout Leader at 1st Tonbridge Scouts and a first aid instructor with the Red Cross. As a boy he sang in the choir at St Saviour's and gained a strong faith that remained with him until the end. 

John started work at the Baltic Saw Mills which gave him an enduring love of timber. Although he had several careers he ended his working life at Alsfords Timber on the same site where he started. He was a fully qualified timber grader, a position that gave him much satisfaction and pride. In retirement he continued his love of wood, taking up wood turning and producing many beautiful items as personal gifts for the family. 

John, along with Molly, were founder members of the Tonbridge branch of the Kent Active Retirement Fellowship and John served them for a year as the local chairman. 

John and Molly's enduring love for cricket led them to become lifetime members of Kent County Cricket Club, a love that has passed down the family line. John and Molly also enjoyed playing petanque where they made many new friends.

This site is a tribute to John Brooker. He is much loved and will always be remembered.