Brooks Prejean: A Life of Quiet Impact and Deep Compassion

Brooks Prejean was a Louisiana-born biology student at LSU and an Organ Recovery Technician at Southern Eye Bank. Remembered for his compassion, intellect, and quiet strength, Brooks left behind a legacy of kindness and service that continues to inspire those who knew him. Though his life ended in 2024, his story remains a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, mental health, and meaningful contribution.

Quick Facts

Early Life and Character

Brooks Prejean grew up in Louisiana, where he built deep roots in his community. From an early age, he displayed a gentle nature and a deep sense of responsibility—traits that would define his academic and personal life. He was raised in a home where integrity, humility, and service were not only taught but lived.

He began his education at the Episcopal School of Acadiana (ESA), where he quickly became known for his balanced excellence—excelling in both academics and athletics.

Academic Excellence at ESA

Brooks thrived at ESA, where he was a standout student and athlete. He played varsity baseball and basketball, always showing sportsmanship and dedication. More than talent, it was his quiet leadership that made him admired by classmates and teachers alike.

He consistently appeared on the Headmaster’s List and was inducted into the National Honor Society. By graduation in 2021, Brooks had already made a name for himself as someone who led not with words, but with actions.

LSU and a Future in Medicine

After high school, Brooks was accepted into Louisiana State University, where he majored in Biological Sciences. He had aspirations of pursuing a career in medicine—a dream that combined his academic abilities with his desire to help others in meaningful ways.

At LSU, he joined the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, where he formed close bonds and became known as a calm, loyal friend who showed up for others even when he was quietly carrying the weight of his own responsibilities.

His Role at Southern Eye Bank

While attending LSU, Brooks also served as an Organ Recovery Technician at Southern Eye Bank in Metairie. This critical role involved recovering eye tissue from donors, facilitating corneal transplants that gave recipients the gift of sight.

His work was technical, emotional, and often unseen by the public. Yet Brooks approached it with care, professionalism, and humility. His colleagues spoke of his reliability, his emotional maturity, and his ability to handle complex tasks with both clinical precision and heartfelt compassion.

💔 A Tragic and Unexpected Loss

Brooks passed away by suicide on September 15, 2024, at just 21. His sudden loss deeply affected family, friends, colleagues, and peers.

His death revealed how even those who seem strongest on the outside may be silently struggling. Brooks was, by all appearances, thriving: succeeding in school, building strong relationships, and serving others through his job. Yet, like so many young people, he faced invisible internal battles that ultimately became overwhelming.

What Happened to Brooks Prejean?

The circumstances of Brooks’ passing remain personal to his family, but it is known that he died by suicide. His loss sparked a broader conversation on the critical need for mental health awareness, especially among students, healthcare workers, and young adults facing pressure to succeed without showing vulnerability.

His story reinforces the truth that mental health struggles can affect anyone—no matter how composed or accomplished they may seem.

A Community’s Grief and Tribute

Following his passing, tributes poured in—most notably from his former school, ESA, which honored his memory with deep respect. LSU students and fraternity brothers posted emotional messages. Coworkers at Southern Eye Bank shared memories of his dedication and warmth.

A GoFundMe campaign was established to support his family and honor his life, with hundreds of people donating in remembrance of the difference Brooks made in their lives.

A Life of Service, Even in Silence

What made Brooks special was not only what he did—but how he did it. Whether recovering tissue for a transplant, lending a hand to a fraternity brother, or quietly excelling in class, he gave his best with humility.

Brooks didn’t chase attention—his quiet actions spoke volumes. His life was guided by meaning, not applause.

The Mental Health Message We Must Embrace

Brooks’ story underscores an urgent message: success, kindness, and strength can exist alongside silent struggles. We must:

• Destigmatize mental health conversations
• Check in on friends, even those who “seem fine”
• Expand access to mental health support for students and early-career professionals
• Normalize seeking help without shame

His passing is a painful but important reminder that mental health care must be as routine and respected as physical health.

How We Can Honor Brooks’ Legacy

Honoring Brooks means choosing kindness, empathy, and meaningful action in everyday life. We can honor his life by:

• Supporting organ and tissue donation
• Funding or volunteering in mental health organizations
• Creating spaces for honest, stigma-free conversations
• Practicing empathy—especially when no one else is looking

Brooks showed us that small acts of care can change lives. Now, we carry that forward.

Final Reflections

Brooks Prejean lived with grace, empathy, and quiet strength. In just 21 years, he inspired a network of classmates, coworkers, family, and friends. His story is both a call to action and a reminder that even in silence, people can be carrying heavy burdens.

We remember Brooks not for how his life ended, but for how he lived—with integrity, purpose, and deep love for those around him.

Let his memory challenge us all: to be gentler, to listen more closely, and to honor the quiet heroes whose presence makes the world better, even if they never say a word about it.