Lillian Rita Brandt

March 6, 1931 – October 16, 2025

Lillian Rita Brandt, born March 6, 1931, in Manhattan, New York, to John and Elizabeth Lillian Decesare, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, in Lacey Township, New Jersey, at the age of 94.

Lillian grew up in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, where she learned early the values of resilience, hard work, and loyalty — traits that would define her life. She moved to Lakewood, New Jersey, in the 1950s, where she built a life defined by faith, family, and an open heart. She was tough, resilient, and full of grit — a woman who faced life’s challenges with courage and grace. Through adversity, she was an example of strength and acceptance. Her home was a welcoming place for all people, where everyone was met with kindness, a pot of coffee, or a pan of lasagna. Our house was the gathering place for many — a haven of laughter, understanding, and unconditional love.

A talented seamstress and devoted mother, Lillian’s greatest joy came from her family. Her favorite role by far was being “Gram” to her beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and, in recent years, great-great-grandchildren. She cherished every moment spent with them, sewing her love into the fabric of their lives in countless ways.

Those who knew Lillian best will remember her industrious spirit and tireless energy. She was always in motion — painting and repainting a room, swapping out light fixtures, or tackling a new electrical outlet just to see if she could. Her creativity and determination were born of necessity, and she took pride in making her home bright and beautiful with her own two hands.

Lillian was predeceased by her beloved son, John Wood, and her cherished granddaughter, Julianna Wood. She is survived by her children Jane Williams, Joan Wood, Jeffrey Brandt, and Julianne Brandt-Olivier, along with her devoted son-in-law, Mark Olivier. She also leaves behind many cherished family members and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Her legacy of strength, acceptance, and love will live on through the generations she nurtured — and in every life she welcomed to her table. There was always a seat waiting at hers.

She was a woman of deep faith and is now home with those who went before her — and with her Lord and Savior.

A Visitation for Lillian will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am at the Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, 26 Mule Rd., Toms River. A Funeral Service will begin promptly at 11:30 am followed by interment to St. Mary of the Lake Cemetery, Lakewood, NJ.