Samuel E. Brookbank, Sr., 100, a native of St. Mary's County, died on April 13, 2012 at home in Chesapeake, VA. Born at Notley Hall Farm in Maddox, MD on June 4, 1911, he was the son of the late Samuel T. and Ruth Knott Brookbank.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gertrude Lanham Brookbank, his six siblings, his son, James S. Brookbank and daughter-in-law, Lynda Cooper Brookbank.

He is survived by his children Mary Lu Bucci (Jim) of Hollywood, MD, Samuel E. Brookbank, Jr. (Joy) of Waldorf, MD, Trude A. Parsons (Donald) of Chesapeake, VA, and John A. Brookbank, Sr. (Tina) of Hughesville, MD; 14 grandchildren, 30 great-grand children and 2 great-great grandchildren; his brother-in-law John (Edward) Lanham (age 103), and sister-in-law Sara.

The youngest of seven siblings, he attended Manor Road School, and inherited his farming skills from his father who was said to be one of the finest farmers of St. Mary's County. After working more than 20 years as an auto mechanic, he retired from the Federal Government as a machinist.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting with his beagles, gardening, bird watching, annual trips to Emerald Isle, NC, including this past summer after his 100th birthday.

Visitation will be held from 3-5 pm and 6-8 pm on April 19 with prayers at 7 pm. Service will be held at 11 am on April 20 at Christ Church, Chaptico. Burial to follow at Charles Memorial Gardens in Leonardtown, MD. Pallbearers will be his grandsons Jimmy, Bret, Ray and Russell Bucci, Skip, Steve, Ross and John Brookbank, Jr. and Chris Parsons.

Arrangements are being handled by Brinsfield-Echols Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics St. Mary's County, 25926 Whiskey Creek Road, Hollywood, MD 20636.