Branson, Joseph Franklin
Joseph Franklin Branson (Joe), 67, died unexpectedly at his home in Florida on August 24, 2018. Joe was born February 22, 1951 to Fred and Mary Lynn Branson of Pulaski, VA. He was a graduate of Pulaski High School, Southern Adventist College and Andrews University.
Joe was a dedicated teacher in the public school systems of Pulaski, VA, Beltsville, MD and Provo, UT for over 29 years. He took special pride in helping his students advance their reading and comprehension skills and worked hard to make each school day special for his students.
Joe was a lifelong member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. He was very active in Spring Meadows 7th Day Adventist Church in Sanford, FL and in their prison ministry. As an accomplished pianist, Joe was glad to give of his time to play for congregations who needed someone to play the piano when his church was not meeting.
Joe was predeceased by his mother and father and by his two brothers, Frederick Lynn and Samuel Eugene. He was the remaining member of his immediate family. Joe is survived by two nephews, who reside in Germany and a number of loving cousins who enjoyed his humor and wisdom. A Memorial Service is scheduled at the 7th Day Adventist Church, Pulaski, VA on September 20, 2018 at 11:00 AM. Burial services are being provided by Stevens Funeral Home, Pulaski, VA.
May 4, 2025 @ 8:07 pm
I knew Joe when he lived in Salt Lake City. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when I knew him. When I married, I moved to Heber City, Utah. We kept track of him until he moved to Virginia. Then, one year, we didn’t receive our annual Christmas Card from Joe. He was the first card we received every year. Finally, I searched and found his obituary. We were saddened by the news of our good friend’s passing. I hope he is happier now. He tried so hard to turn me into a vegetarian. When he came home from school, he was always exhausted. It was because he was severely anemic. But I understand that when he moved to Virginia, he left the LDS church and returned to his Seventh-Day Adventist Roots. We think of him often with fond memories.