[Shawn Lesky]

Brent Walls, formerly of DuBois, died yesterday.

My friends and I are pool players and we met Brent that way as kids and have known him since, usually encountering him once a week or so if not more randomly anywhere within 100 miles of here. There isn't a pool table within a thousand miles that was open to the public that Brent didn't help wear out the cloth on. Brent, at times. . .and maybe more often than not, was or could be a hard person to get along with, especially if he didn't know you or didn't like you. If he did like you, chances are that you never heard it from him; you just had to inherently know. He could be stubborn and had some enemies to put it mildly (but who doesn't). If you didn't know him and agitated his sometimes short temper (and it didn't always take much), you could have easily found yourself in a confrontation/fight with him, but as time went on I witnessed Brent grow up and settle down and turn into somebody who was much more civil and mature (a feat I never thought I'd witness from the time I first knew him--so I give him credit). In spite of all things negative and any/all of his shortcomings, Brent I think, at his core, was a good guy. . .and one of the best pool players DuBois has ever seen (especially when at his best). I counted him as a friend and he'll be missed.

The stories that one can tell about Brent, both good and bad alike will become a DuBois mythology I'm sure. I have dozens of each and that's just me. Every day he spent was an adventure and if you knew him or even knew of him then you know exactly what I'm talking about. Whether you loved him, liked him, or loved to hate him. . .or if you could pick and choose between those three options depending on what day it was (I know that's how it was for me.), Brent was a good human at heart. In spite of how they sometimes fought like junkyard dogs, I'm sure his brother is hurting right now as is the rest of his family I'm sure, his girlfriend and immediate family especially. My prayers are with them all today and they have my condolences. Brent had a reputation that he built up over time as being a tough guy. . .and much of maintaining that didn't make him come off as being all that warm of a person, but I've seen the "soft side" of Brent on occasion, especially in the company of his grandmother who he was close with. A greatly religions person, she can be credited with much of the good that could be found in him and it could be apparent if you saw them interact.

Brent had his vices, as do the rest of us. . . and I won't begin to judge, in spite of the fact that one such vice was the apparent cause of his early departure from our world--the evil that took him away from us all(as rumor has it). Even so, It's my greatest hope that he can find a peace now that he sometimes struggled to reach here in this world.

With a heavy heart: Rest in peace, Big Guy. . ."Five bucks--Five teeth"

[Webmaster]

You're all encouraged to share a story or your thoughts/sympathies regarding the untimely passing of this DuBois icon. You must be a member to register, but it's both free and easy to join. Simply click "Register" above to the right of "Login" above or click the following link: http://www.duboisliv.../...Reg&CODE=00

It goes without saying I hope, but please be tasteful/respectful with your commentary.

Thank you.

[tammy brown]

I had known Brent for atleast 20 years. I thought of him as a friend. We went to school together, shot pool together, and hung out at many of the same places. He was a big guy with an even bigger heart. and will be sadly missed. Rest in peace Buddy. We loved you.

[bigglthug]

I have known Brent for a very long time. We had some good times and some bad, but I hope he rests is peace. A lot of people have negative things to say about him, myself included, but I will always remember the positive things about him. We played wiffle ball vs each other 1000s of times, basketball (by the way, he always lost money to me, when he actually paid.) The sad facts are too many die too young, and leave people behind. Unfortunately he like many others had some problems, that ultimately caused him his life. My prayers are with his family, especially his grandma Mae, and mom Cathy. On ething Shawn got 100% right is Brent Walls will go down as a DuBois Icon, it's up to everyone to decide whether or not that is a good thing.

R.I.P. Brent

[tl1975]

What a shame. I grew up with him as I was friends with his cousin. I didn't know that he moved away.
Does anyone know funeral arrangements? Keep his whole family in your prayers.

[Dancin_Richie]

I have known Brent since 3rd grade if my memory serves me correct. I remember him riding the school bus home with me so we could play "Atari." Some of you youngsters might not even know what Atari is. That tells ya how long we go back. WE had many good times and many good memories and some not so good memories and not so good times. You had to know Brent to understand how that works. All in all most of the times we spent together were fun and great times. Renting a canoe and taking it down the Clarion river ( we tipped it cuz brent was like trying to ride in a canoe with a black bear) Sure there were some bad times but you have that with all friends if you think about it. We attended WWE Summerslam in 1995. Great times that day. I also took Brent to several ECW Pro Wrestling events back in 1995-1996 when it was still "real." Lenny Anderson also would come with us sometimes. We (Brent, Len & myself) all love(d) live pro wrestling shows because we could "Heckle" the wreslters and pick fights with them but it was still just all part of the show. Those that know Brent understand that he was a "heckler." I drank more beer than I would ever drink now with Mr. Walls as he was famous for putting the brews away. We had our differences but they were just minor disagreements in the scheme of life. I had not seen Brent in about almost 2 or 3 years. He liked to fight and that and alcohol probly caused him the bigest problems in his life and then other things came along. A think Lesky's post is 110% on the money and very tastefuly done. Also like Len said, the wiffle ball games were not really games, they were battles of pride. Brent and I always ended up on the same team on our 2 on 2 league @ St. Catherines "WiffleBall Facility" Many, many games. Sadly I have played my last game with Brent. It is sad when you grow up together with someone and know them your entire life and the next thing ya know they are gone forever. When you put that into that perspective it is sad to know that you will never see that person ever again and that hurts. Brent was liked and loved by many others may have been more apt to call Brent "Infamous." He was well renowned in the Tri-County area for sure good or bad. I prefer to remember all the many good things and all of the many, many times Brent made me laugh my a** off. He had that ability, a great sense of humor for sure. HIs demons just got the best of him, but I am sure he will never be forgotten. I could literally write a novel on the life and times and adventures of Mr. Walls. Im sure it would be an interesting read. My best wishes and prayers are with the family in this difficult time. To those that took the time to read my lengthy post, I thank you. I knew the man as good as anyone did. He will be missed. I just wish I could have talked to him one last time. R.I.P. Brent Walls, you will be missed. The man was TRULY one of a kind!!!!!!!! God Bless the family , my prayers are wit you all (Kathy, Tom, Megan, Girlfriend Jen, Mae Olson , Grandpa George Walls and family, and all other relatives and others close to the family. I will miss you BIG GUY.

[Dancin_Richie]

tl1975, on May 23 2008, 05:48 AM, said:

What a shame. I grew up with him as I was friends with his cousin. I didn't know that he moved away.
Does anyone know funeral arrangements? Keep his whole family in your prayers.

I believe Leo Nedza is handling the arrangements.

[Sean]

I can remember when Brent and Jason first moved to DuBois believe it or not. I was attendeding Wasson Elementary. They were pretty good at kick ball too. It was always nice to have someone on our team that could really take it downtown. I moved around and eventually away for awhile, then I return to Dubois years later - I had the pleasure of running into Brent. It felt good to be remembered by him. We always seemed to have fun whenever and wherever. Come to think about it - I think I gave him one of the shirts I was wearing because he didnt have one on. It was odd - but hey I didnt ask. He was a trip. Full of life and a take no shit attitude. Two damn good qualities to have if you ask me. Godspeed my old friend.

[Donnie Cyphert]

I will remember some great trips to wrestling matches with Brent and Rich. Rest in peace "Cookie"!!!!

[Shawn Lesky]

Obituary (Courier Express):
http://www.thecourie...s...72982&rfi=6

[Shawn Lesky]

I just got a call with some updates from Lisa, Jason's girlfriend:

The Foundry in Reynoldsville is where the after-funeral dinner will be held. Family and friends will be received there. If anyone is interested in donating food, call Kathi (Brent's mom) at 541-0022.

[Shawn Lesky]

In what couldn't be a more fitting gesture, I have it on good authority that Ken McKee of Reynoldsville is organizing a pool tournament to be held in benefit and in memory of Brent, most likely at the Reynoldsville Eagles or Forrest Way Inn of Brookville. Kenny can be reached at 814-653-8975.

[brents_lil_sis]

This is brents little sister Meghan. I really appreciate everyones thoughtsand kind . Brent was pretty well known and I am glad everyone is thinking of him. I am going to miss my big bro. I know he would be thrilled about everyone doing so much for him. The viewing is at the LEO NEDZA FUNERAL HOME on Saturday from 2 - 4 pm and 7 - 9 pm . And then Sunday there will be viewing from 11 - 1:30 pm and the service will start at 1:30pm the burial service at the Reynoldsville Cemetary will begin at 3 pm. There will be the dinner following the burial service. Everyone is welcome. KEEP BRENT IN YOUR THOUGHTS! THANK-YOU everyone. If you need any info about the funeral or dinner call my mom at 541-0022. Thanks again....MISS YA BRO.....LOVE YOU !!!

[angelindisguise]

I knew both Brent and Jason for a long long time. They lived most of their lives right down the street from me. Brent was an awesome guy that really knew how to put a smile on your face. My thoughts are with his family at this trying time.

[Mark]

I met Brent when he was a kid. Big smile and always laughed! RIP buddy!

[Dawn]

RIP Cookie... My thoughts & prayers are with your family...

XOXO
Dawn

[Brent's Momma]

I wanted to say to you all THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS FOR BRENT,hE would be very proud thay you all are thinking of him,Shawn please come up to me and let me know you,I know Brent would be proud he had you for his friends. Thank-You all and Please come to his viewing. Kathi Walls

[pattya]

This is Brent's Aunt Patty.
Brent and Jason were a such a big part of my life when they were small. They were just like my own kids.
We went so many places together when they were young, vacations to Virgina Beach, HersheyPark, Bush Gardens, Seaworld, you name it we went. I wanted them to have such a good life, they stayed with my Mom and Dad every chance they could because they spoiled them so much, so you see they were never deprived of attention.
I remember one time when Brent was around 2 years old, and it was wintertime. I had Brent dressed in a blue hat, coat and snowpants, and he looked adorable. I had just gone and got groceries and left Brent in the car ( still idliling, I might add ) and just got the last bag of groceries into the house when I turned around to see Brent shifted the car in gear and it hit the foundation of the neighbors house. I grabbed him ( Brent who was scared to death and was crying )and ran into my Mom and Dad's house and told my Mom, ( Brent's Gramma ) to check him over to see if he was hurt at all, while I was sobbing and crying. She said he is fine, he is just scared. We stood him up on the floor and he came over and punched me, then I cried when I thought he was mad at me. So you see he had me wrapped around his finger.
There are so many things I think of about Brent and Jason when they were little. It's hard to tell all the stories.
I will miss Brent and just the thoughts of him not being there for his Mom, Grandmother and Sister is just so unbearable, I just don't know how we are going to get though this.
I do want to Thank all of his friends that came to the viewing, and to the funeral, we will never forget you and the kindness and time you took out of your lives to share this sad time with us,this is one of the nicest things you could have done for our family.
Please keep us in your prayers, this is a difficult time for us for we miss him so much.
Patty

[Brents Baby Girl Brie]

First off all I would like to thank you shawn for doing this and Brent spoke highly of you. and second of all Brent was my step father and he took me in as i was his own child. My mother is taking this very hardly but she is doing better and trying to get through this. But no matter what she always loved Brent and always will I mean geez she was his (wife to be) and the love of his life. I thought that the funeral was very nice and Brent would be proud to see the turnout of it all. In times like this you really do find out who your friends are and Brent is a lucky man and has so many friends that care about him and love him. Grandma, I love you so much baby gurl and youll always be in my thoughts and prayers. no matter what, Brent will always be my daddy and be in my heart. And if you think about it like this, everyday that is passing is a day that gets closer to seeing him again. Also think of it like this, He is up in heaven playing on the big table! I could tell you guys tons of stories about my time with him but that would be like a book. I just want to thank all of the pall bearers for carrying the casket and everyone else for attending. Brent, I love you daddy and you will always be in my heart as the same love comes from my mother Jennifer and Erica my sister.

I wish I could have a big bear hug from brent now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Brents Baby Girl Brie

[Brent's Momma]

Ah, Brianna, That was so sweet,Thanks for caring so much about my son, & Meghan and Jason's bro.We are devastated to lose my big boy and tonite we went and covered Brent up Just like I did everynight when he was growing up,because we heard it was going to freeze,Oh I didn't forget my dad either he's also covered too.My mom is so very happy to back where she was born and raised in Reynoldsville.Molli is also taking this badly ,Brent used to say to Molli can I be your daddy,she said NO I got my daddy.It's comforting to know my dad was waiting for him and also Gretchin Sue Longo who were good friends and she was my special girl too.Most people will always remember My big boy and Momma's boy,but,he will always be in my heart,I used to think how horrible it would be to lose a child and no words can even express how bad it is,Brent and me were very close as many of his GOOD friends know,he stopped by or called almost daily.Also I was the last to talk to him before he left us.Mom and I CRY EVERYTIME WE LOOK AT HIS PICTURES which those whoever came to our home has seen I LOVE PICTURES AND AM SO GLAD TO HAVE THEM AND HAVING THE PRIVILEGE TO BE HIS MOM.I MISS HIM SO MUCH.Thanks everyone for all the kind words the donations cards,FLOWERS and the pool tournament for his burial,Brent had no life insurance and am thankful Leo Nedza and Kiley Longo were in charge.I hope Brent was happy with his arrangements that Meghan and myself did,he loved his Eagles and I searched so many stores to find one with no luck,but,I told LEO NEDZA how I wanted him and he called everywhere and found it,and Meghan's boyfriend Jeff went and got it.There are so many people to thank for the wonderful way everyone prepared the food and the turnout.Also Brents only daughter Arika Walls is coming home its sad he couldn't of saw her as that was what he wanted more than anything,Brent,Meghan and myself traveled to South Carolina to try and see her without any luck.At least I know he is seeing his Baby Girl now.I Love and miss you so much big boy and can't wait to see you again. "

I LOVE AND MISS YOU BRENT

Momma"

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[Brent's Momma]

Well went and took blankets off this am Oh Brent why did you leave me,god I am missing you its killing me.I listen to the 2 voice messages I got often,just to hear your voice.I Love and am missing you badly.Your Momma

[jennkearney]

Kathi, Meg and Family,

I am just heart broken over Brent leaving us. I will never forget Meg's phone call that night. I was in complete shock!! Brent was always so strong will and nothing would take him down. I have so many memories of your family. Brent and I had some many good and bad times. All I can remember now is the good. He was a great person under that tough shell. I will never forget his laugh and that cute shy smile. My god all the times we spent together!! I am so sorry I didn’t make it up for the Funeral. I was so sick with the flu. I just want you to know I said my good byes with many tears. I want to visit his final resting place my next trip into town. I hope Kathi and Meg will go with me. I just want you all to know I will miss Brent very much and I look forward to hearing his laugh again!!! Kathi, Meg and Molli I love you very much and you will always be apart of my life. I don't care if we only talk a few times a year. I have spent so many years with all of you and I will never forget those special memories!!! I love you all and I will never forget Brent. I will never forget him.

Jenn

[Brent's Momma]

Thanks Jenn for the kind words.Mom and myself are having a bad time losing My BIG boy,I am in denial ,I wake up crying and go to bed crying,it just can't be true,there is such a big hole in my heart without him,I love all my kids so much but Brent and me were so close,I don't want it to be true.But Brent you know how much your momma loved you and miss you.They say time makes it better well for me I am getting worse.I want him BACK!

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[DJK]

Kathi,
I hope you got the card Terry and I sent last week. I think about you every day. My heart breaks for your family. I didn't know your son, but you and I have known each other since we were kids. Things like this aren't supposed to happen. I'll keep you in my prayers for strength to get through this.

Donna

[Brent's Momma]

yes I did I will be getting the thank you cards mailed asp,Thank you its going towards his funeral bill down to 4,602 then I will have to get the tombstone,the Eagles above my sister Patty got for him for the Grave he would love it! Thanks again to you all.

[Janie241]

Do any of you know when the Pool tourement will be held in Memory of Brent Walls? The family is severely struggling with obligations for the furneral cost .As much as they are suffering over the death of Brent then they have funeral costs on top of this. Too much for this family to bear. Hope you can help. This could help so much for everyone in the community to help this family. Please Help. Thank you.
Their add. is :
Kathi Walls
1429 E. Main St.
Reynoldsville Pa

[Shawn Lesky]

I've taken charge of the Brent Walls Memorial Pool Tournament to be held this coming winter at a location to be determined. The event, once more details are known, will be posted on our events calendar and blasted on MySpace, etc., not to mention at every pool meeting and tournament in between. Tickets will be sold in advance to secure more spots. Any local businesses that wish to help sponsor should contact me at 541-9694. Proceeds are to benefit the family and secure a tombstone. In all likelihood, it'll be at the Forrest Way Inn or the Reynoldsville Eagles as a venue and the cost will be $5.00 per person with a donation of $5.00 in addition (or more if you so choose). A website will be erected to honor those friends who participate and donate. Even if you can't play, you can be recognized with a donation of $5.00 or more. Thank you.

Please direct questions to shawn@lesky.org or call me if you're unable there at the number previously listed.

[Janie241]

Thank you Shawn for your response. I know this family and the struggles they are having. I also know when someone young passes, people focus on that person until the next young person dies. This is why hopefully the pool tourney will take effect soon and people will continue to remember Brent and participate in this activity. Thank you all for your kindness and concern. Great humanitarians you all are in caring and helping the Brent Wall's family. We can never bring Brent back but we can focus on his laugh, smile, sincerity, kindness, and more that always occurred in his young life. Again Thank you. Brent's favorite aunt. Mary

[Brent's Momma]

 HPIM0492_1_.JPG (79.49K)
Number of downloads: 6 Today is 6 months my big boy left me and it is unbelievable,I miss him SO much,Then Nov.24th is his 34th birthday,I put a thing in DuBois paper but missed the deadline by a couple hours but he knows we Love and miss him dearly.Went to his grave today and put hi tree up and his Christmas flowers,I got him a Eagles helment for his birthday its metal,he always said where's my Eagles stuff he new he'd get alot,lol,I miss and love you so much!And you will always be in my heart!!

[pamperedprincess27]

So sorry that you have to go through any of this. You and your family are in my prayers.

[Brent's Momma]

It should of been me,not him