Diana Marie Brand

Diana Marie Brand, a lifelong resident of Potosi, was born on October 19, 1956 in Bonne Terre to Robert Luke Johnston and Opal Ruth (Barton) Johnston. Diana went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, September 30, 2024 at the age of 67.
Those who remain to treasure her memory include her loving and devoted husband, Denny Brand; two sons, Lee Brand and Doug Brand (wife, Beth); three grandchildren, Dougie Brand (wife, Kara), Hailee Nichole Brand (fiancé, Zach Eye), and Ashlynn Brand; a great granddaughter, Harper Nichole Eye; four siblings, Robert Johnston (wife, Vicki), Roger Johnston (wife, Becky), Donald Johnston (wife, Stephanie), and Nancy Johnston-Beall (husband, Michael); sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Krista and David Snyder; as well as a host of special aunts and uncles, nieces, nephews and extended family.
Diane was preceded in death by her father and mother Robert “Bob” and Opal Johnston; her sister, Mary Ann Johnston; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Veldon “Buck” and Patricia Brand; and in-laws, Donnie Brand, Jeff and Kathy Richards.
Diane was taught from a young age the value of family. She loved her family with all of her heart. She married the love of her life, Dennis Brand, on March 19, 1977. Together, they built a family that would bring boundless joy to their lives. Denny and Diane shared a strong bond. In Diane’s younger years, she always looked forward to camping trips, hiking, and road riding. Diane loved being outdoors taking in the scenes of God’s creation. Whether it was sitting in her gazebo at home with Denny, watching a beautiful sunrise while enjoying a cup of coffee or sitting with her family around a campfire, she loved every minute of it.
Diane was a woman of deep faith. She was a longtime member of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church where she often sang specials. Diane also enjoyed playing piano in years past. Additionally, Diane was a talented quilter. She would sew together the most beautiful quilt blocks and create a masterpiece. She often assisted friends in completing their quilts, expecting nothing in return. Her generous heart was evident in all that she did. Diane had a strong work ethic that was instilled in her at a young age. She began working for Wes Irwin at the Juvenile Office in Potosi, then went to work for DeGonia’s Insurance Service, and most recently for First State Community Bank Insurance Division. She was not one to have idle hands. She was always busy doing something.
Diane had a great love for her sons, Lee and Doug, and she absolutely adored her grand-babies. They held a very special place in her heart. In the past year, Diane faced many challenges stemming from her diagnosis of cancer. However, her circumstances never altered her trust in the Lord. She had a profound faith and always reminded those around her to find their faith and hold on to Jesus. Diane fought the good fight, she kept her faith, and she finished her race. Her family is comforted in knowing that she is resting in her Heavenly Home.
Visitation was held on Friday, October 4th from 5 to 8 p.m. at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation resumed on Saturday, October 5th from 9 a.m. until the time of her funeral service at 11 a.m. Elder Mike Jarvis officiated, assisted by Bro. Larry Lovvorn. Interment and final prayers were held at St. Joachim Catholic Cemetery of Old Mines. Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.