Bernard Seabrooks

Bernard Seabrooks, affectionately known as “Bernie” to family, friends, and colleagues, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, mentorship, excellence in broadcasting, and unwavering dedication to family and community. Born in New York City on July 15, 1934, Bernie was the only child of Louise Brown and Govan Seabrooks. A proud New Yorker, he spent most of his life in the city he loved. He attended the prestigious Stuyvesant High School and later earned his bachelors degree from the City University of New York. And his Masters degree from Pace University. Bernie also served honorably in the United States Army from 1957- 1959. Bernie began his distinguished broadcasting career at CBS in the mailroom through an experimental training program. Through talent, determination, and professionalism, he steadily rose through the ranks to become a respected producer and pioneering figure in television production. During a transformative era in American broadcasting, he earned recognition for his creativity, technical expertise, and thoughtful leadership. In 1961, at the age of 27, Bernie was featured in Ebony magazine as a trailblazer for African Americans in television. Throughout his career at CBS, he became known affectionately as “The Godfather” because of the guidance, encouragement, and opportunities he extended to countless young professionals entering the industry. Over a remarkable career spanning more than 50 years with CBS News, Bernie contributed to numerous acclaimed productions and religious programming, including CBS Reports, Sunday Morning, Lamp Unto My Feet, and Look Up and Live. He worked on Sunday Morning for 34 seasons from 1978 to 2011 and produced several notable documentaries and special programs including: ● Four Days in November: The Assassination of President Kennedy (1988) ● Religion: The Secular Press (1986) ● The Hidden Heritage (1986) ● Levandia: A Portrait of the People (1986) ● The Moon Above, The Earth Below ● Senior Producer of the PBS documentary on Marian Anderson (1990) He received recognition and nominations from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, including Look Up and Live (1978), Lamp Unto My Feet (1978), and The Selling of the Pentagon (1971). Later in his career, Bernie served in leadership with the National Park Service’s Audiovisual Division in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. He also worked in corporate media and radio station ownership in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bernie was deeply committed to service and his Kappa Alpha Psi Inc. He became a member during his college years at City College. In addition he was a founding member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Teaneck-Englewood Chapter and remained devoted to uplifting others throughout his life. In 1981, Bernie married Carol Tyrance. Together they shared a love of travel, especially to Aruba, where they purchased a timeshare in 1982. In 1983, they welcomed their beloved daughter, Erika Seabrooks. Bernie was a devoted father, mentor, colleague, and friend. He was also a lifelong and devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, not the New York Yankees. He was a lover of seafood especially crab cakes and shrimp. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Erika Seabrooks, his former wife, Carol Graves; and a host of cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and colleagues whose lives were enriched by his wisdom and kindness. Bernie will be remembered for his quiet strength, pioneering contributions to television and media, steadfast mentorship, and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Celebration of Life Saturday, May 15, 2026 Trinity Episcopal Church 7005 Piney Branch Road, NW Washington, DC 20012 Reverend Shayna J. Watson Priest in Charge Reverend Caron Gwynn Officiating Acknowledgement The family of Bernard “Bernie” Seabrooks wishes to express sincere gratitude for every prayer, act of kindness, expression of sympathy, and gesture of love shown during this time of bereavement. Your support and presence have brought comfort and strength. May God richly bless each of you.

Tributes

Bernard Seabrooks

July 15, 1934 - April 11, 2026