Joseph L. Branch Jr

Joseph Leroy Branch, Jr., 74, formerly of New Haven, CT was called into eternal rest on Saturday November 25, 2017 at the McGuire VA Hospital in Richmond, VA after a brief illness. Joseph was the first of five children born in New Haven, July 29, 1943 to the late Joseph L. Sr. and Syla A. Artist Branch. He was affectionately known as “Joe”, “Joey”, or “Branch” to family and friends. He graduated from James Hillhouse High School in 1962. He was drafted into the United States Army from 1967 to 1969 and fought in the Vietnam War where he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal. After his honorable discharge, he returned home to New Haven where he worked at Winchester Repeating Arms until its closing and the VA Hospital in West Haven, CT until his retirement. He later relocated to Richmond, VA. He leaves to cherish his memories, special friend, Sandra Beard and Bubbles (Richmond, VA), three sisters; Frances Branch Walker, Linda and Paulette Branch all of New Haven, CT and a brother, Erwin Branch (Nellie) (Columbus, OH). Nieces and nephews: Scheri Walker, Retired Master Sargent Raymond Walker III (Harker Heights, TX), Xan Walker, Dana Reid (Desmond Sr.)(Columbus, OH), Sondi Branch, Kendra Branch Payne, Myles Branch, Sr., Freddie Branch (Columbus, OH) and Tanya Faison (Reading, PA). Great nieces and nephews: Keith Richard Walker, Cheri Walker, Paul Bryant Hudson, Jr. (Jennifer), Desmond Jr. and Deja Reid (Columbus, OH), SPC Thomasina Walker (Nashville, TN) PFC Carlos Walker (Fort Carson, CO), Brian Jr. and Khalid Payne, Samaia Brantley and Myles Branch, Jr. Great-great nieces and nephew: Curiah and Xanae Walker and Baby Kwei-Okai Hudson. First cousin Scheherazade Harrison-Okoro (Adi) (Round Rock, TX), and a host of other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his aunt, Frances R. Harrison and cousin, Anthony J. Harrison. A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, December 11, 2017 at McClam Funeral Home, 95 Dixwell Avenue, New Haven, CT, 06511. Viewing 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Service 11:00 a.m.//Burial and Military Honors at Beaverdale Cemetery, 90 Pine Rock Avenue, New Haven, CT 06515.

Joseph L. Branch Jr

July 29, 1943 - November 25, 2017