Jack Lee Branch

Jack Lee Branch, 93, of Valdese, NC passed away Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at his residence.  Born in Burke County, NC on July 5, 1923, he was the son of the late Frazier Ivey Branch and Alice Small Branch.  Jack was a founding member and former deacon of United Baptist Church.  For many years he operated a number of service stations and small businesses.  He retired as a security guard at Morganton Dye and Finishing.  He was an avid antique collector.

Mr. Branch is survived by his daughters, Jackie Crawley of Valdese, Judith Martin and husband, Jerry, of Sanford, FL, and Pam Buchanan and husband, Allen, of Valdese; grandchildren, John Patrick, Joshua Crawley and wife, April, Dominique Martin, Josh Buchanan, Erica Buchanan, and Taylor Prysock; great-grandchildren, Tyler Patrick, Kaitlyn Patrick, Lathan Crawley, and Peyton Crawley; and a great-great-granddaughter, Sadie Stafford; a sister, Elizabeth Kirby; sisters-in-law, Frances Branch and Jean McDaniel; a number of nephews and nieces; and his beloved animals.

In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Gillie Mae Buff Branch; a son, Todd Branch; a son-in-law, Thomas Crawley; and siblings, Willard, Johnny, and Herbert Branch, and Nancy Cline.

The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 am, Saturday, January 14, 2017 at United Baptist Church (2638 Messer Road, Valdese).  The funeral will be held at the church at 11 am with the Rev. Daniel Morton and the Rev. Steve Mathews officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with funeral expenses.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.