Salem, Ohio, is grieving the sudden loss of Gage Brennan Brooks, a 15-year-old incoming sophomore at Salem High School who died on June 28, 2026, in Ashtabula, Ohio.
Gage was born on March 30, 2011, in Youngstown, Ohio, and his death has left family, classmates, and teammates searching for ways to process the loss of someone so young.
A Beloved Presence at Salem High School
Gage was known around Salem High School as an athlete who competed in both football and track. Members of the Salem Track and Field team publicly expressed their sorrow following news of his passing, calling him part of their “Quaker family” and asking the community to keep his loved ones in their thoughts.
Teammates and coaches described the loss as sudden and devastating for a group that considered Gage one of their own.
Outside of sports, Gage enjoyed video games, fishing, and spending time with friends. Those who knew him often mention his love for The Wizard of Oz, which he counted as his favorite movie, and say he had a way of connecting with people who shared that same fondness for the film. Family members remember him as a gentle and curious boy whose presence brought comfort and joy to everyone around him.
Family Remembers a Life Full of Love
Gage was the son of Erik and Jessica (Brooks) Ault. He is survived by his brother, Ethan C. Ault, and his sisters, Mackenzie N. Collins and Lirah Brooks. His grandparents, Lori Brooks, E. Thomas Ault, Angela F. Travis, and Roberta Peoples, are also among those left to honor his memory, along with an extended circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins who helped shape his childhood.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Scott Brooks, and his cousin, Tenley Grace, both of whom loved ones hope welcomed him after his passing.
Family and friends are invited to attend a public visitation on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 1 to 2 p.m. at First Methodist Church of Salem, located at 244 S Broadway Ave in Salem.
A Celebration of Life will follow at 2 p.m. at the same location. Guests are asked to wear red, which was Gage’s favorite color, as a way to honor him during the service.
Instead of flowers, the family has asked that memorial donations be made to the Salem Athletic Boosters at 1200 East 6th Street, Salem, Ohio 44460, a cause that reflects Gage’s love of sports and his involvement with the school community.
Arrangements are being handled by Brown Funeral Home, Salem Chapel, which can be reached at (330) 337- 6363 or through its website for anyone wishing to send condolences or learn more about upcoming services.
As word of his passing spreads across Salem and surrounding communities, tributes continue to pour in from classmates, coaches, and neighbors who remember Gage as a kind and lighthearted teenager whose absence leaves a deep void in the town he called home.
