Jefferson Brand Jr., affectionately known as Jeff aka Junior to his family, was born on November 8, 1938, in Marion, Alabama, to the late Jeff and Gatsy Brand.  One of the nine children, Jeff grew up surrounded by family, faith, and a strong sense of community. He was educated in the Marion public school system.

In his early years, Jeff made his way north, first to Chicago, IL with his brother John Brand, and later settling in Cleveland, Ohio, where he would spend the majority of his life. It was in Cleveland, while working at Cleveland Mental Hospital, that Jeff met the love of his life Elizabeth. Their union was blessed with two sons, Jeffrey and Rodney, who would become the pride of his life.

Jeff was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent many years in the construction industry (F. Buddie Construction Co.) before enjoying a well -earned retirement. Outside of work, he was a man who loved the great outdoors- especially fishing and hunting, pastimes that brought him both peace and joy.

A loyal Cleveland sports fan, Jeff could often be found cheering on his favorite Cleveland sports teams, especially when baseball season came around. Retirement brought him and Liz great joy, particularly in the time they spent with their grandsons Bryce, Brelan, and Zyan- who brought a renewed sense of purpose and laughter into his life.

Jeff is preceded in death by his wife Liz, his parents and his siblings John, Otha, Hubbard, Joseph, Marvin, Lillie and Esther. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted sons Jeff ( Tammy) and Rodney ( Angela); his grandsons Bryce, Brelan, and Zyan, his loving sister Minnie and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, dear friends who will remember him with love and gratitude.

Jeff’s strength, wisdom and quiet presence will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.