Josephine I. Brand, 81 of Wayland, died Friday, Nov. 11, at her home.

Mrs. Brand was born Feb. 24, 1935, in Buchanan, Michigan, the daughter of Ralph and Dorothy (Boywer) Kuhl. Josephine spent most of her adult life cooking, not just for her family but for most of Wayland. She and her family owned and operated the Airport Diner in Wayland, and then she went on to cook at the local high school for many years and at Sandy Creek Nursing Home. Everyone enjoyed her wonderful talent in the kitchen.

She was also a very active member of the Wayland VFW Auxiliary since 1970. Even though Josephine kept busy, her favorite pastime was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were a true blessing to her life and she cherished her time with them.

Josephine is survived by her five children: Dorothy Brand-Mathews, Joann and Wayne (Brand) Carpenter, Raymond Brand, William and Carol Brand, and Thomas and Martha Brand; 16 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; two sister-in-laws: Rose Kuhl and Martha Fee.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Rosual A. Brand; her brother, Edward Kuhl; sister and brother-in-law, Leona and Edward Corder; grandson, Tommy Johnson; and son-in-law, Barry Mathews.

Friends may meet with the family from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15, at Gorden Funeral Residence, Hopkins Chapel, where the funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, with Pastor Caleb Wolcott officiating. Interment at East Elmwood Cemetery, Wayland Township.