Andrew Johnathan Brokes, age 24, of Burlington, North Carolina, died in the line of duty on October 8, 2026, while courageously serving others as a firefighter. Born on January 13, 2002, and raised in Burlington, Andrew carried a deep sense of service, compassion, and dedication throughout his life. He proudly continued his family’s tradition of firefighting, joining the fire service at just 18 years old. In the early morning hours of October 8, Andrew answered his final call when he was killed in a building collapse while battling a structural fire in Durham, North Carolina.

Andrew graduated from Western Alamance High School in 2021. That same year, he completed his Emergency Medical Technician certification and firefighter training while serving as a volunteer firefighter. Throughout his career, he worked with several fire departments, including Elon, Efland, and Swepsonville, before joining the Durham Fire Department in May 2025.

Firefighting was far more than a job to Andrew; it was his calling and his passion. He loved serving his community and helping others, often picking up extra shifts at other departments simply because he wanted to spend more time doing the work he loved. His commitment to the fire service reflected the very heart of who he was—a young man who found purpose in being there for others, especially when they needed him most. It is a heartbreaking testament to his character that he lost his life doing what he loved: protecting and serving others.

Andrew was also a proud Eagle Scout with Troop 4019 in Burlington. He lived the Scout Oath and Scout Law every day, embodying the values of kindness, loyalty, service, and helpfulness. If someone needed a hand, Andrew was always ready to help, and he did so with a smile. If someone was feeling down, he had a way of making things better with a warm hug and a caring heart. He was the kind of person people naturally gravitated toward, someone who made everyone he met feel welcome, valued, and special. His generous spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Outside of firefighting, Andrew loved adventure and the great outdoors. An avid traveler, he enjoyed hiking, skiing, snowboarding, jet skiing, and nearly any activity that allowed him to be outside and active. He delighted in exploring new places and trying new things, approaching life with boundless energy and excitement. He had visited several national parks and dreamed of visiting them all. Whether he was discovering a new destination, enjoying an outdoor adventure, or simply spending time with the people he loved, Andrew embraced life wholeheartedly.

Above all, Andrew will be remembered for his caring and helpful heart. He gave freely of his time, his energy, and himself, never hesitating to step forward when someone needed him. His life, though far too short, was filled with purpose, adventure, friendship, and service. The courage he demonstrated as a firefighter was matched by the kindness he showed in everyday life. Andrew’s legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the people he helped, the friendships he built, and the example he set through his unwavering commitment to others.

Andrew is survived by his loving parents, Samantha and Christopher Brokes; his brother, Alex; and his grandmother, Suzanne Shipley, all of Burlington. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Michael Brokes and Connie Delio of Scotch Plains, New Jersey; Kevin and Tracy Brokes of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina; and Susan and John Kelly of Stanhope, New Jersey. His surviving cousins include Katie, Jacob, and Ethan Brokes. He also leaves behind many loving extended family members and countless friends and colleagues who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Art Shipley and Joy and Aladar Brokes.

A celebration of life service will be held at 4:00 PM Saturday, October 17, 2026 at The Lamb's Chapel - Airport Location in Burlington, NC. The family will receive friends from 4:00 - 7:00 PM Friday, October 16 also at The Lamb's Chapel.

The family "strongly" requests in lieu of sending flowers, that memorial donations be made to the North Carolina Fallen Firefighters Foundation or to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation in honor of Andrew’s life, service, and ultimate sacrifice. Donations may be made at https://www.ncfff.org/ or https://www.firehero.org/.

Andrew answered the call to serve with courage, lived with a heart full of kindness, and loved life with extraordinary enthusiasm. Though his final call came far too soon, the goodness he brought into this world will never be forgotten. He will forever be remembered as a devoted firefighter, a loyal friend, a loving son and brother, and a remarkable young man whose greatest strength was his willingness to help others. His watch may have ended, but his light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Rest in peace, Andrew. Your service, your kindness, and your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

You may send condolences and sign the online register at www.lowefuneralhome.com