Harold Brett Jr.

Born in New Orleans on April 29, 1936, Harold was a lifelong resident of the city where he attended Alcee Fortier High School and Tulane University. He was a member of the Air National Guard of Louisiana and the Reserve of the United States Air Force. In 1958, he purchased a clothing store on Metairie Road, which he transformed into Sandy’s Tuxedo Rentals and Sales. For over five decades, Harold became a beloved figure in Jefferson Parish and a trusted name in the wedding and Mardi Gras communities. Alongside his wife Diane and her parents, he built one of the area’s most successful businesses, outfitting celebrities and locals alike for their most memorable occasions. To many, “Sandy” was more than a businessman—he was a friend.

Harold was a devoted husband to Diane Alfortish Brett for 63 years, and a deeply cherished father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His zest for life and unwavering positivity touched everyone he met.

He was a member of several Carnival organizations, including Endymion, Atlas, Rhea, Zeus and the Knights of Jason. He proudly supported his daughters as they reigned as Queen of Endymion in 1979 and 1983. Harold also enjoyed dressing and supporting the Jefferson Parish St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, the Louisiana Irish/Italian Marching Club and various organizations throughout the city.

Harold’s greatest joy came from travel and time spent with family. Whether traveling abroad or enjoying simple fishing trips on Lake Pontchartrain—he made every moment an adventure. He shared his love of bowling, opera, classic music, and new cars with his daughters, and created lasting memories with his two girls sharing dinner shows and dancing at the Roosevelt’s Blue Room, and mornings with his good friend, Harry Lee at The Coffee Pot on Metairie Road.

He instilled in his daughters the values of hard work, curiosity, and perseverance, involving them in the family business and encouraging them to pursue their own paths to success. As a grandfather and great-grandfather, he was a quiet but loving presence, always cheering from the sidelines and sharing wisdom and joy.

Harold will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his devotion to Diane, and his enduring optimism. He remained active and engaged until his final days, inspiring all who knew him to keep dreaming and living a life of gratitude.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Brett Sr. and Marguerite Petermann Brett; and in-laws, Richard Raymond Alfortish, Sr. and Rita Berry Alfortish.

He is survived by his daughters, Sandy Brett Spitale (Gerald Spitale), Bonnie Brett Frey (Larry Frey); grandchildren, Jessica Spitale Fresina (Trent Fresina), Brent Spitale (Shelby Goutreaux Spitale), Jordy Spitale, Ashley Frey Puente (Jason Puente), Callie Frey Lafranca (Will Lafranca); great-grandchildren, Carsyn and Reagan Fresina, Addison and Skylar Spitale and a new addition expected in the Spring of 2026.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Harold’s caregivers: Deidra Wells, Dr. Winoka Banks, and Compassus Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jefferson Council on Aging – Meals Program. Attn: Development Department, 6620 Riverside Drive, Suite 216, Metairie, LA 70003

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral services at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd in New Orleans, on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Visitation will begin at 11 AM with a Memorial Mass following at 1 PM in the chapel. Harold will be laid to rest in Lake Lawn Park immediately after the Mass has concluded.