On Tuesday, November 8th, 2022, Jeffrey J. Brandon, beloved husband and father, passed away. He was seventy-six. He is survived by his adoring wife, Donna Brandon, daughter Tierney Brown of NJ, son Nick Brandon of FL, grandchild Ryan Brown, brothers Stephen Brandon of FL, Rick Brandon of NJ, and sister Susan Dietz of NJ.
Born in 1946, he grew up on the Jersey shore, his Father was a firefighter, and his Mother an office administrative assistant. The eldest of 4 siblings, he was the big brother who could always be counted on to step in to help. This helping spirit continued throughout his lifetime.
After graduating from Pt. Pleasant High School, he received his graduate degree from Bethel University in McKenzie, Tennessee. He returned to Pt. Pleasant after graduation to begin a rewarding teaching career that spanned 11 years, teaching math and coaching track and field. He was respected by his students and was still called “Coach” whenever they saw him.
In 1978, he moved to Florida to work for Motorola, where he held various product management and marketing executive positions throughout his highly successful twenty-two-year career with the company. In 2001 he retired from Motorola, and in 2004, he and Donna moved to Tennessee. He served as Director of Business Development and Quality Assurance at Dynasty Spas. He helped Dynasty maximize its growth and revenue potential. Jeff also helped manage operations at Springbrook Country Club.
After retirement, Jeff worked tirelessly for his local community through volunteer work and serving various community organizations, including, The United Way, Helping Hands Ministries of McMinn County, The Parks and Recreation Broad, and as Coordinator for the Eliminate Project for the Kiwanis. For his faithful service, he was recognized with the awards of 2013 Kiwanis International Foundation, Tablet of Honor, 2014 Young Kiwanian of the Year, Athens Kiwanis Club, and the 2018 and 2019 Governor's Volunteer Stars Award. In addition, in 2019, he received the Dick M. Dyer award for "continued service in meeting the pressing needs of this community." He was also recognized with the J. Neal Ensminger “2019 Man of the Year Award" from the Athens, TN Chamber of Commerce. His endless dedication and giving to the community were from his heart.
Jeff will be remembered and missed immensely by all that knew him and loved him. To celebrate his life, a funeral mass will be held 2:00 pm, Monday, November 14th at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Athens, TN. In place of flowers, donations may be to Helping Hands Ministry, ℅ Cap Star Bank, P.O. Box 869, Athens, TN 37371-0869.