Obituary

             Joe Branch Jr. affectionally known as (Mr. Joe and JB) was born May 8, 1938, in Madison Florida to Reatha Wyche and Reverend Joe Branch Sr..  He was a graduate of Madison County Training School.  He was married to Classie Marie Johnson on August 16, 1958 for 64 years. Their union produced 3 children that he loved unconditionally.

Joe was converted at an early age and had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  His faith was unwavering about sharing God’s goodness in his life.  He would often say “if God is for you the devil in west hell can’t do you any harm.”Joe started working at Chery Farmer at the age of 18 and remained a loyal employee until retirement in 2017, 61 years. Joe would identify himself as simple “country boy”.  He provided a blueprint example for dedication to his family and friends. He had a heart of kindness and treated everyone with thoughtfulness,especially children.  His smile was infectious and would always brighten the day of others. Joe enjoyed the relaxing art of “fishing”, but not the post efforts of cleaning the catch. He would jokingly say “if its big enough to hook, he is big enough to cook”.

Joe departed this life on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents: Reatha Wyche and Rev. Joe Branch Sr., Brother Eddie (Bud) Branch Sr. and Sister Jennethal Woods and his loving wife Classie Branch.  Classie preceded Joe’s death in 2023; after 64 years for marriage.

He leaves to cherish her loving memories… Children: Gerry J. Branch Sr. (A’ndria) of Midwest City OK, Glenda Y. Branch of Madison FL, Darryl A. Branch (Johnnie) of Plainfield NJ.; Grandson: Gerry J. Branch II (Kelle) of Peoria IL;Sister: Arie Lee Heirs of Madison, FL, Bonus Children: Marilyn Williams, Valnecia Williams of Madison, FL, and Regina Glee-Nash of Tallahassee, FL. Close friends: Cornelius Green, James Featcher and Robert Thompkins. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and sorrowing friends.  A “Big Thank You” to the Madison Health & Rehab Family” – You understood the assignments!