Joe Eddie Rand, affectionately known as “Coco” by his family and friends, was born on December 5, 1955, at Mercy Hospital in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to the loving parents of Eddie Lee Rand and Linnie Mae Rand. At an early age, Joe Eddie dedicated his life to Christ and was baptized at Hopewell Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Simmons.
As a child growing up, Joe was known for being happy-spirited and full of life. He will always be remembered for his beautiful smile, keen eye for fashion, giving heart, and the deep love he carried for his family. Joe was raised in a close-knit and loving family environment where many of his nieces and nephews grew up alongside him more like siblings than relatives. He attended school in the Benton Harbor Area School System.
Family meant everything to Joe Eddie, and the love he shared with them was truly priceless. His daughter, Jolanda, was the apple of his eye. Joe Eddie paid close attention to every detail of her life and worked hard to ensure that every phase of her journey was fulfilled to the very best of his ability. He was a hardworking man who took great pride in being self-sufficient. Known for always dressing “sharp as a tack,” Joe Eddie carried himself with style, class, and confidence everywhere he went.
Throughout his life, Joe Eddie worked many jobs, but his true passion was cooking. He was an exceptional cook who could prepare meals filled with love and flavor that brought family and friends together. In his spare time, you could often catch Joe Eddie dancing—whether bopping, swing-out, or doing the two-step. He loved staying connected with family and friends, always reaching out to mend relationships and keep loved ones close.
Joe Eddie also had a deep love for gospel music and a special gift for decorating and blending colors beautifully. He took tremendous pride in maintaining a clean and welcoming home. In fact, those who knew him often said Joe Eddie could clean a home better than any professional cleaning company. His attention to detail, caring spirit, and loving personality made him truly one of a kind.
Joe Eddie will truly be missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those who loved him. He leaves to treasure his precious memories his loving wife, Sandra Rand; his beloved children, Jolanda, Danika, Steve, and two additional children; his sisters, Lela Guyton, Josephine Smith, Eddie Lee Lowe, Ann Fields, and Patricia, all of Benton Harbor, Michigan, and Mary Cross of Irving, Texas; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.
Funeral services have been scheduled for Thursday, June 18, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Pettus Rowland Funeral Home with Pastor Martha Howell officiating.
Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.
Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral hour.
You may light a candle or leave online condolences at pettusrowlandfh.com.
