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Jess Rand Obituary

December 25, 1925 - September 12, 2014 Jess Rand, born in the Bronx, NY. Graduate of Dewitt Clinton High School. Studied journalism at Columbia University. At age 16, began his musical career with Irving Berlin in NY. His career was put on hold to enlist in the US Navy/1943-1946 where he served in the Pacific (Iwo Jima, Okinawa and Philippines Liberation). Served on USS Franklin CV-13. Honorably discharged as Signalman, PO 2nd class. After the War, he became close confidant and press agent for Sammy Davis Jr and personal manager to Sam Cooke. Rand represented great stars including Lee Marvin, Mel Torme, Glen Campbell, Judy Collins, Bobbie Gentry, The Lettermen, Mort Sahl and Dick Gautier. In 1961, produced The Plunderers with Jeff Chandler. He created a 90-minute episode of "Sam Cooke Phenomenon"/debut show for the Westinghouse Broadcasting TV Network. Continued working as Personal Manager until 1991/co-founder and served as President of Conference of Personal Managers West until he moved to Montecito, CA in 1986 with wife Bonnie Rand. Next to his family, Rand's greatest love was music. Rand is survived by Bonnie Rand, loving wife of 60 yrs, son, Jonathan, daughter, Amy, 4 grandchildren and great grand-child.

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Published by Los Angeles Times from Sep. 17 to Sep. 21, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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Buz Wilburn

November 19, 2024

Today, I was deeply saddened to learn of Jess´s passing. For many years, we worked closely together during our time with The Lettermen, and I came to admire him greatly. Jess was a kind, gentle, yet firm leader, embodying the qualities of a true professional manager.

I will always cherish the accomplishments we achieved together and the dedication he brought to every project. His influence and integrity left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege to work with him.

Rest in peace, Jess. You will be missed.

- Buz Wilburn, Executive Director A&R, Capitol Records (Retired)

Diane Steinberg-Lewis

October 3, 2023

Thinking of Jess! I loved him as my manager and dear friend! Miss him!

Jess Clackum

February 25, 2021

I know it's nearly 6 years later, but today I was looking through old boxes I'd packed away and found some of my old letters from Jess. He'd passed on some really great stories, advice, and mentoring that I won't forget. Jess was my Grandparents' generation, and though I'm a Gen X'er, I have a bit of an "old soul" and I believe he rather enjoyed passing along his wisdom to someone so much younger than he, who really appreciated it. It was a great loss when he passed away, but like so many who knew him, I am forever thankful for the memories.

John & Toni Byrnes

October 1, 2014

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever. No words can describe how we feel. We will miss your smile and your captivating stories of your life. I was proud to be your brother-in-law. Thank you for being my mentor.

Tony Butala

September 28, 2014

For many years Jess was my vocal group The Lettermen's personal manager and a good friend. He did his job extremely well and was responsible for many good breaks that our group enjoyed from 1962 to the mid 1980's. He was a good man. Tony Butala

richard zimmerman

September 18, 2014

Produced one of my fav movies. The Plunderers. RIP

Ryan Farmer

September 17, 2014

Your son Jonathan and grandson Seth are great men. You did well. All my best to the Rand family during this time.

Roseanne Romaine

September 17, 2014

Love to the entire Rand family
Hugs and kisses

Ray Sullivan

September 17, 2014

What a wonderful life! To the family: Celebrate Jess's life by living a full one too. Sorry for your loss. Glad you have good memories of a wonderful man.

Howard Love

September 17, 2014

My condolences to the family of a gentleman of many talents and a man that recognized great talent.
Sam Cooke fan.

Phyllis Cook

September 17, 2014

Blessing to you and your Family, so sorry for your loss. Jess was a great friend when he managed Sam who was my Brother-in-law.

Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results

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