David Israel

Charles B. Westbrook, Jr. (aka David Israel) of Milan, IL was born on March 29, 1944 to Bishop Charles B. & Mrs. Barbara J. (Williams) Westbrook in Forrest City, Arkansas.  Affectionally called “Buddy” by his family, he grew up and received his early education in East Moline, Il. Following graduation, he enlisted and served honorably in the U.S. Army, 82nd Infantry Airborne, receiving multiple commendations. Buddy worked at the Rock Island Arsenal and launched entrepreneurial pursuits; B.O.S.S. Enterprises from which he retired, Global Outreach, Inc. established to help the homeless and those suffering around the globe. Ethos Productions was established for The Original Westbrook Singers recording projects for which he played bass guitar, and was co-owner of The Jean Bar, a clothing outlet. He was also the Illinois Golden Gloves Champion in the 1960s. Charles transitioned from this life on Tuesday, August 24, 2021.

Over the years, he served as Sunday School Superintendent, mentored in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters youth organization, coached youth basketball and participated in many other volunteer opportunities. Charles began and spearheaded the first Martin Luther King Birthday Celebration in 1982 (prior to the nationwide MLK federal holiday) at Augustana College on behalf of the Iowa/Illinois Chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference that is now an annual event.

He was united in marriage to Ruth Rogers on July 8, 1965 in Bennettsville, SC. To that union, one child was born, Charles B. Westbrook, III (Kipp). They later divorced.

When the family is asked to describe Buddy in one word, it was very hard to do. However, words like leader, committed, studious, dedicated, funny, methodical, loving, genuine, honest, truthful, researcher and the ultimate tradesman came to mind. Even during difficult times in his life, he always persevered and overcame many obstacles.

Those left to carry on, remember and cherish his legacy are three sons (spouses), Charles B. Westbrook III (Kipp), Winston-Salem, NC, Kent (Michael) Bates, Atlanta, GA, Rodney Brown, Dallas, TX; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren;  Five sisters, Rochelle Jenkins, Marietta, GA, LaJune Johnson, Iowa City, IA, Brenda Joyce (Larry) Lee, Madison, MS, Delores (Joe) Tingle, Forney, TX, Cynthia (Ray) Bryson, Charlotte, NC. Five brothers: Ken (Elaine) Westbrook, Chicago, IL, Dennis Westbrook, Larry (Janice) Westbrook, Moline, IL, Gary (Carol) Westbrook, East Moline, IL and Joseph Westbrook along with many, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

  He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law, Sumner W. Jenkins and James L. Johnson.

A visitation/memorial will be held at Community Outreach Worship Center, 440 16th Avenue, East Moline, IL on Wednesday, September 1st from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.  Masks are required and CDC protocol will be adhered to.  Burial will be Thursday, September 2nd at the Rock Island Arsenal at 10:00 a.m.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David Israel, please visit our floral store.