Paul Edward "Ed" BRANT Jr.

BRANT, Paul Edward Jr. "Ed"

67, left this earthly life on October 26, 2017. He struggled with CHF and recently had a heart attack. Ed was born on August 29, 1950 in Lutz, FL to Paul and Mary Lily (Sullivan) Brant. He grew up in Lutz and graduated from Chamberlain High School in 1968, then attended Westmar University in Iowa. He earned a BA Degree in Psychology at Asbury University and a BA Degree in Sociology from The University of Kentucky. Ed was particularly adept in mathematics, possessed the spiritual gifts of giving, service, hospitality, and mercy, and enjoyed cooking (especially for Mother's Day and birthday dinners). Holding various leadership positions, Ed worked in the field of Social Services and Christian Education throughout his life. This included employment at The Salvation Army, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pinellas Workforce (and Development Board), Clearwater Homeless Intervention Project, Subway, and TRIAD. In the past, he was actively involved at FUMC Lutz, FUMC Seffner, and FUMC LOL Choir. Most recently "Mr. Ed" was The Christian Education Director, Youth Counselor, and heavily immersed in Music Ministry at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Dade City, and was the receptionist for Dr. Dorothy Lekarczyk, whom he greatly respected and admired.

Ed is survived by his wife of 32 years, Sharon (Soderberg); son, Nathan (Amanda); daughters, April Foreman (Jason) and Kala Shannon; grandchildren, Maddox, Adie, Raider, and soon-to-be Liam Edward; sister, Paula Cooper (Kenton); best friend, Terry Hammond (Patty, Amy, Sarah); mother-in-law, Kitty; and Damien. He leaves a loving and crazy big extended family, including numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, our in-laws and out-laws; and our cherished church and community of friends.

A celebration of life service will be held at St. Mary's at 1 pm on Sunday, November 5, followed by Ed's party at The Dade City Women's Club. The family would be blessed and honored to have you attend either or both of these celebrations. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to The St. Mary's Youth Music Camp Scholarship Fund. As you know, Ed Brant had the kindest, most caring and loving heart. But, because his heart worked so hard, it had to take a rest. Now, Ed will be loving and caring for us all from heaven.