Johnny Martin Branch, age 87 passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023. Johnny was a lifelong resident of Knoxville, Tennessee and a member of Buffat Heights Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Jamie Branch. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a member of Plumbers and Steamfitters, Local Union 102 for 69 years, a Master Mason for 64 years, a member of Burlington Lodge #763 F&AM, Knoxville Scottish Rite, and Kerbela Shriners of Knoxville. He enjoyed spending time with his family, listening to music, going to flea markets, visiting his neighbors, and walking his dog, Becky. He also loved to plant a garden and grow tomatoes. They were the best.
Survivors include his wife, Betty, of 67 years, who was his high school sweetheart; children, Kimberly (Bill) Gentry, Karen "Susie" (Steve) Irwin, Kristy (David) Ferguson; granddaughters, Kristin (Scott) Shoemaker, Katherine (Matt) Doane, and Kandice Irwin; great-grandchildren, Macy Shoemaker, Isaiah Doane, and Nickolas Shoemaker; brother, Roy Branch, and several nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Family and friends will meet at Lynnhurst Cemetery at 2:45 PM for a 3:00 PM graveside service Friday, December 22, 2023 with Rev. Matt Doane officiating. The family wishes to thank Dr. David Hancock, Megan Edmisten, FNP-C, Smoky Mountain Hospice, and Sacred Ground Hospice House for the care given to Johnny and his family. A special thank you to Stacy Mowry.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shriners Children's Lexington, in care of Kerbela Shriners, Sacred Ground Hospice House, or Buffat Heights Baptist Church Youth Department.
Online condolences may be left at www.berrylynnhurst.com.
