Updated: November 13, 2025
Larry Brooks Wife: Hey there, hockey fans and story lovers alike. If you’ve ever flipped through the sports pages of the New York Post or caught a Rangers game buzz, you’ve probably crossed paths with Larry Brooks’ name. The guy was a titan in hockey journalism—a sharp-witted columnist who could break down a power play like it was poetry. But today, as we mourn his passing at 75 after a brave fight with cancer, my thoughts keep drifting to the woman who stood by his side through it all: his beloved wife, Janis Brooks. She wasn’t just a partner; she was the quiet force that fueled his fire. In this post, we’ll dive into their beautiful story, her impact, and why her memory feels even more poignant right now. Grab a coffee—let’s chat about love, loss, and legacy in the world of sports.
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Who Was Janis Brooks? The Heart Behind the Headline
Janis Brooks was more than a name in an obituary; she was the rock for one of New York’s most iconic sports voices. Married to Larry for decades, Janis brought warmth and steadiness to a life spent chasing deadlines and rink-side drama. Born with that classic New York grit, she embodied the kind of loyalty that hockey fans admire in a penalty-kill unit—unwavering, even under pressure.
What made Janis special? She wasn’t in the spotlight, but her influence rippled through Larry’s work. Friends and colleagues often whispered about how she’d be the one reviewing drafts over late-night takeout, offering that honest feedback with a smile. In a high-stakes world like sports journalism, where egos clash like sticks on ice, Janis was the calming voice reminding Larry to keep it real. Sadly, she passed away in 2020, leaving a void that’s impossible to fill. But her spirit? That’s still lighting up tributes pouring in today.
The Beautiful Love Story of Larry and Janis Brooks
Picture this: Two souls navigating the chaos of New York City, building a life amid roaring crowds and quiet family moments. Larry and Janis’s romance wasn’t some fairy-tale whirlwind—it was the slow-burn kind, forged in shared dreams and everyday adventures. They met in the ’70s, back when Larry was cutting his teeth as a beat reporter, and Janis was carving her own path in a bustling metropolis.
Their marriage became a cornerstone, weathering Larry’s stints with the New Jersey Devils front office and his return to the Post in 1994. Janis was there for the highs—like Larry’s 2018 Hockey Hall of Fame induction for the Elmer Ferguson Award—and the heartaches, including grueling road trips and industry shifts. What stands out in stories from those close to them? The little things: weekend escapes to the Hudson Valley, cheering on their son Jordan at his games, or just laughing over bad coffee after a late column.
- Shared Passions: Janis loved the arts, often dragging Larry to Broadway shows to balance his hockey obsession—proving opposites really do attract.
- Family First: They raised Jordan together, instilling values of resilience that echo in his own life today.
- Quiet Strength: Through Larry’s health battles, Janis was his biggest cheerleader, a role she held until her own passing.
It’s stories like theirs that remind us: Behind every great byline is someone holding the pen steady.
Janis Brooks’ Lasting Impact on Family and Larry’s World
Janis didn’t just support Larry’s career; she shaped the family that outlived them both. As a devoted mom to Jordan and a doting grandma to Scott (14) and Reese (12), she poured love into every hug and homemade meal. Jordan’s wife, Joanna, often shares how Janis taught her the art of grace under fire—lessons that hit home now more than ever.
In Larry’s professional circle, Janis was the unsung hero. She’d host post-game gatherings where players like Sean Avery or Dave Maloney would unwind, swapping tales that humanized the game. Her knack for making everyone feel seen? That’s pure magic. Even after 2020, Larry honored her in subtle ways—dedicating columns to resilience, a nod to the woman who showed him what it meant.
Here’s a quick glimpse at her ripple effect:
- On Larry’s Writing: Janis encouraged his bold takes, like pushing for Brad Park’s jersey retirement, knowing passion drives progress.
- Family Bonds: She fostered unbreakable ties, from Jordan’s career to grandkid adventures—now a living tribute.
- Community Touch: Friends recall her volunteering at local charities, blending Larry’s public life with private kindness.
Janis’s impact? It’s the kind that doesn’t fade; it multiplies, like a perfect breakout pass.
Tributes Pouring In: Remembering Janis Through Larry’s Lens
As news of Larry’s passing breaks hearts across the NHL, tributes are flooding in—and Janis’s name keeps surfacing. James Dolan of MSG Sports called Larry a “must-read,” but insiders know Janis was the editor of his soul. Dave Maloney tweeted about Larry’s “crease-side tenacity,” adding how Janis grounded that fire with her gentle wisdom.
On X (formerly Twitter), fans are sharing old clips of Larry’s Rangers coverage, captioning them with love for the Brooks family. One viral post reads: “Larry wrote the games, but Janis wrote their story—timeless.” It’s raw, real, and a testament to how their partnership inspired so many.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Love That Scores Eternal
Wrapping this up feels bittersweet, doesn’t it? Larry Brooks’ wife, Janis, wasn’t chasing headlines, but her love scripted one of the greatest untold stories in sports. In a world that moves as fast as a slapshot, she reminded us to pause, connect, and cherish the ones who make us better. As we say goodbye to Larry today, let’s raise a glass to Janis—the heart that beat strongest in their shared rink of life.
If Larry’s journey touched you, drop a comment below: What’s your favorite Rangers memory, or how has a partner’s support changed your world? Let’s keep the conversation going. For more on hockey legends and heartfelt tales, subscribe—because stories like this? They’re why we tune in.