Gregory Jamal Hooks

Gregory Jamal Hooks passed away at the age of 51.

Gregory or some know him as Jamal, was born to Gregory and Joan Hooks on June 9^th 1972 in Los Angeles California. Gregory was a very kind person with a gentle spirit. We would call him a gentle giant because he was so big and tall. He was a quiet and reserved person to a point but once people got to know him they would see his beautiful personality come through. Gregory was a very funny person. He had a sarcasm that would make people laugh. Gregory loved sports and especially football. He attended Culver city High School in California and was dubbed “Mr. Culver City”. He was considered one of the best athletes. He took all state in football, track and basketball. After high school, He played for Santa Monica College and later transferred to play with the University of Utah from 1992 to 1993 as a wide receiver. He made many friends at the U of U and had many frat brothers with the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. His studies were in criminal justice. After college Greg went on to be a youth corrections counselor for the Juvenile Justice system for the State of Utah. Greg loved kids and was great at being a positive mentor for troubled youth. Where ever Greg went he made a difference and people always remembered him. Greg loved his family whether immediate or the family that he gained through marriage to Krista Hooks. On June 20^th, 2019 Greg and Krista were blessed to adopt and become parents to a beautiful girl named Mylea Hooks. Greg always had a way of making her giggle with his humor and he was always so patient and kind with his daughter. He always made her feel safe and loved.  He called her his boo boo kitty. She will always hold love for Greg in her heart. Greg will be missed by many. He is survived by siblings Richard Ridgley, Yvette Ridgley, Damien Hooks (Toni). Also survived by his daughter Mylea Hooks. He is proceeded in death by his parents Gregory Hooks and Joan Hooks. Greg has many nieces and nephews through immediate family and through the Martinez family (Krista) that all love him very much. No matter what Greg, you will always be a part of the Martinez family. You are in Gods care now G-Wiz. Rest in paradise Greg. A memorial service will be held on Thursday May 30^th at 10:30 AM at Calvary Baptist Church 1090 South State Street, Salt Lake City, UT.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.