Marlo J. Brandon

Marlo James Brandon Sr., born in Kingston, NY, on March 12, 1961, entered into eternal rest surrounded by his loved ones at his daughter’s home in Troy, NY, on March 16, 2026.

He is survived by his children, whom he loved dearly: two daughters, Moniqua Marie Gilmore and Marlo Jane Brandon, and two sons, Marlo Brandon (Man) and Marlo James Brandon Jr. (Lil Marlo). He also leaves to mourn his loving and devoted life partner, Laurie Jean Murphy.

Marlo will be forever missed by his five sisters: Rosella (Robert) Curry, Francine Hylton, Alvina (Mark) Francis, Leslie Easter, and Pamela (Troy) Mackey; and his two brothers, David (Kim) Brandon Jr. and Ronald (Jocelyn) Brandon. He also leaves behind six grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Marlo was predeceased by his parents, Jeanette and David Brandon Sr, three sisters, Judith Gaton, Geraldine Blake, and Marlene Scarlett; his grandparents, Harold (Bo) Jones and Frances Jones; his son-in-law, Justin Gilmore Sr.; and his godfather, Willie (Boots) Lindsay, whom he loved dearly.

Marlo graduated from Kingston High School in 1979 and later attended Paine College in Georgia until he became ill. He worked at Micronetics. As a child, Marlo suffered from chronic illnesses that often required hospitalization. His conditions limited his ability to do many things most children took for granted, but Marlo was a warrior—even to the end. His strength always outweighed his weakness. In his small frame lived a giant—a courageous, intelligent, adventurous, and loving GIANT. He was a KING. Marlo loved all sports. He played little league baseball and supported all sporting events and teams. He was a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan! A lifetime member of the Boys and Girls Club, Marlo was also a ping-pong whiz who loved to challenge anyone willing to face him—and he would win, earning the title of Ping Pong Champion of Ulster County year after year. Marlo had a deep love for Doberman Pinscher dogs and raised several of his own. He also loved to ride his bike every day, everywhere—he never missed a beat and always kept up.

He cherished spending time with his beloved friends, the #8 School Crew, whose friendship went beyond camaraderie—it was a brotherhood. The girls were welcome too, if they were tough enough. They were family, riding bikes all over town together. That was Marlo’s remedy for his legs—he was an overcomer. Marlo was lionhearted—greater than his circumstances. He could go from talking trash to engaging in serious debate or social commentary. He was active in his community and loved to barbecue, always with all the fixings. The Chinese buffet was one of his favorite spots, but he especially loved preparing a full-course Thanksgiving dinner. Marlo regularly invited people from the neighborhood and beyond to share meals, laughter, and conversation—never judging or denying anyone in need. Everyone was always welcome. There are countless wonderful things to say about Marlo, but the most honorable is the way he loved his children and grandchildren. Though tough, he was also lovable and reliable—even when he didn’t feel well. Every school break and summer vacation, Marlo gathered all his grandchildren, giving them his full time and attention, creating memories that would last a lifetime. He also made it a point to enjoy family vacations with all his children and grandchildren every year. Marlo was truly amazing. Words cannot express our love for him, nor the sorrow we feel in his absence—but he shall forever remain in our hearts.

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