Josephine Rita Brand

Josephine Rita Brand, lovingly known as “Jo,” passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, on February 10, 1942, Jo was the daughter of the late Norman and Angelena Nicastro. She had been a devoted member of Wesley Memorial Church since 1987 and held a special love for her Agape Sunday School Class, where she formed many cherished friendships.

Jo found joy in life’s simple pleasures—reading, gardening, bird watching, and especially spending time with her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be remembered as a loving wife, devoted momma, and a faithful friend whose kindness and warmth touched everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son; Larry Brand Jr., and her brother; Norman L. Nicastro.

Jo is survived by her husband; Larry C. Brand Sr.; her children, Jeff (Yadira) Brand and Vicky Hoffman; her daughter-in-law; Cathy Brand, grandchildren; Hilary Rayfield (Matt), Cole Brand (Cara), and Melody Hoffman, great-grandchildren; Wyatt and Josie-Kate Rayfield and Laurel Brand,  brother; Pete Nicastro, her sister; Lillian Truett, and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Poole Funeral Home, with Pastors Ramon Torres and Chris Rouse officiating. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, an organization close to Jo’s heart.