Jeffery Gordon Brant
Jeffery Gordon Brant, age 80, passed away on May 2, 2023 in Taylor Lake Village, Texas. He was born on December 23, 1942 in New Iberia, Louisiana, to parents Ralph and Jeanne Brant. Jeff is survived by his wife Meredith Brant, daughter Ellen Seymour and husband Billy Seymour, step daughter Ashley Blake and husband Cody Blake, step son Brian Johnson, and grandchildren Savannah, Sam and Dani Gray, Austin, Cameron and Reagan Blake, and Ava Johnson as well as numerous family members and friends.
During the Vietnam War, his nation called and he answered by joining the U.S. Army. After his discharge, he pursued and earned Bachelors and Masters degrees from Stephen F. Austin University and began a career at the City of Deer Park where he remained until retirement. After 57 years as a bachelor, he found his forever love Meredith and they made a home together in Taylor Lake Village.
Jeff was a collector of vinyl records, old telephones, radios and ink wells. He loved to read and was an inventor of clever and curious things. He was smart and funny and kept his loved ones laughing with his puns.
A celebration of his life will be planned at a later date. For those who would like to do something in Jeff’s honor, please consider donating to your local library or to the www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org. But of course, the best way to honor Jeff is to be good to your neighbor and make others laugh every chance you get.
I had the pleasure of cutting Jeff’s hair for 40+ years. During this time we had many wonderful conversations. Some serious, most funny. He always had jokes to share. As he grew older and beautiful head of hair started to thin on top, he asked me to start leaving the front longer so he could comb it back to help cover that area. As time passed he realized this was not working out the way he thought it might. He asked me what he could do. I said “when you’re around other people, just don’t sit down”. He looked at me with a funny look on his face. I continued…”you’re a tall guy, taller than most. If you never sit down, no one will see the top of your head.” He smiled and said “Why didn’t I think of that?” “That’s why you got me” was my reply. I will miss this guy every day. I will cherish the memories I hold dear.
You served him well and he loved you for it. Thanks for sharing.
Knew Jeff for many years. In our younger years we would go dancing, play cards and charades as a group. He was always nice and so funny. He was the best man for Bill at our wedding. Had many fun times with him. I am sure he will be missed by many. RIP Jeff.
Thanks for sharing your memories of Jeff. He was nice and funny ’til the end.
I worked for Jeff at the City of Deer Park when I was going to High School. He treated me so well. He had such a quick wit and great sense of humor. I never saw him not smiling or joking. You will be missed my friend.
Jason, he was a kind, funny guy to the end. He thought the world of you.
Jeff Brant was a one of a kind, a unique soul who was sharp, witty, and smart. He never met a stranger on campus and always had that great voice and smile. I met Jeff when we were students at SFA. We both loved sports and soon formed an Intramural football team (Mag 7). Jeff was a very good athlete and naturally “The Quarterback.” He had a rocket arm and called the shots!! We had great success on the gridiron and enjoyed time together on and off the field. Jeff, along with a couple of other guys on the Mag 7 team formed a bond that has carried on for over five decades. Jeff was a man’s man….a stand up guy that I was proud to call my friend. I know Jeff’s family will cherish the memories you shared with him. Meredith, I am sorry for your great loss.
Stan, Jeff often spoke of you. I had forgotten you met in Nacogdoches and didn’t know you played football together. He certainly thought a lot of you, too. Thanks for your kind words. I would be interested in other memories you have of Jeff if your are inclined to share them. You can reach me at Jeff’s email.