Linda D. Brand

Ms. Linda Dirksen Brand, 68, of Springfield, died on Sunday, November 9, 2014. She was born November 2, 1946. She was a loving mother and grandmother who enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She had an adventurous spirit and will be greatly missed. Ms. Brand was educated at Little Flower and Blessed Sacrament elementary schools in Springfield. She attended Regina Dominican High School and Marquette University. She returned to Springfield in 1982 and retired in 2006 from the State of Illinois where she had served as a Small Business Advocate since 1983. She was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward J. Dirksen, Leona Knecht Dirksen, and Virginia Dirksen; granddaughter, Amber Brand; and brother, Dr. Andrew Jarvis Allen. She is survived by three daughters, Paula (husband, David) Paul and Maureen Brand all of Springfield, and Stephanie (husband, Jim) Nallen and their children, Paige and Alexa of Schaumburg; brother, David Allen and sister-in-law, Margie Allen both of GA; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center following visitation. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 4:30 p.m. Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2014 at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 245 N. Amos Ave., Springfield with Rev. Robert Jallas, celebrant. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Catholic Charities of Springfield, 1625 W. Washington, Springfield, IL 62702.