James Branch

James B. Branch, 79 of Hamlin passed away June 21, 2017 at a hospital in Abilene, Texas. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 24 at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Hamlin with Robbie Harris and John Branch officiating. Burial will be at Hamlin Memorial Cemetery directed by Adams-Foster-Ray Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday June 23 at the funeral home.

Born July 31, 1937 in Montague County, Texas, James was the son of Walter and Effie (Cox) Branch. James married Patsy (Mitchell) Branch December 31, 1955 in Hamlin. James was a retired oilfield supply store owner. He also worked for his dearest friend, Buddy McNutt for 18 years in Aspermont. James continued to work on his farm up until a few days before his death. He loved taking care of his cows and his cats. James also loved making music with his family and playing his mandolin. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Hamlin.

He is preceded in death by his wife Patsy in 2011, his son Scott Branch and his daughter Jamie Branch and one great grand-daughter Emalea Swafford, his parents, three sisters and numerous nieces and nephews.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Starla and Luciano Chavez, Sr. Four brothers: George Branch of Milburn, Ok.; Wallace Branch of Tyler, Tx.; John Branch of Caddo, Ok.; and David Branch of Breckenridge. Three sisters: Fannie Rogers of Durant, Ok.; Mary Ann Tucker of Kempner, Tx. And Marie Hill of Hamlin. Six grandchildren: Kelli Swafford (John David); Patricia Rainey (Atlee); Scotty Branch (Sarah); Ryan Guerra, Niki Adkisson (Robert); Alyssa Darnell (Jake); nine great granddaughters, two great grandsons; and a very special friend, Bobby Wade of Aspermont.

Visitation

Adams-Foster-Ray Funeral Home
505 NW 5th St.
Hamlin, TX  79520
Friday, June 23, 2017
6 to 8 PM

Service

First Baptist Church
217 SW Ave B
Hamlin, TX  79520
Saturday, June 24, 2017
10 AM

Cemetery

Hamlin Memorial Cemetery
2 mi E. of traffic light on TX-92
Hamlin, TX  79520