’He loved everybody': Family, friends gather to remember restaurant owner murdered in NoDa

MATTHEWS, N.C. — Friends and family of a restaurant owner murdered in Noda gathered Saturday to pay their respects and say goodbye to the beloved community member.

“Scott was just the greatest person. He gave me so much guidance," said his brother-in-law, Jay Bird. “He brought the Lord into my life, taught me how to be a better person, better man. I tried to follow behind him and his brother in doing what I do for a living.”

Hundreds of people attended the service for Scott Brooks at Idlewild Baptist Church. Several attendees were emotional when they spoke to Channel 9 about what Brooks meant to the community.

“Just a gentleman and a kind man, and he just treated everyone the same. He loved everybody,” said Rita Deaver.

Brooks is known as a family man. Brooks and his brother inherited Brooks’ Sandwich House in Noda from their father who opened it in 1973.

“The family is doing OK. They have the hope they will see him again one day, so that’s what they’re holding onto," said family friend Pamela Licklighter.

Vigil held for man murdered outside his sandwich shop Vigil held for man murdered outside his sandwich shop

On Monday, police said two people tried to rob Brooks before shooting him to death. It happened outside his sandwich shop while Brooks was trying to open the restaurant.

Police have not arrested anyone in connection to his murder, but they are offering up to $5,000 to anyone who helps lead to an arrest.

“It’s just such a loss. Just a tragedy. He’s a great man and a great friend to everyone,” said family friend Amy Belk.

A committal service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Sunset Memory Gardens in Mint Hill.

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