Born on October 11, 1932, the son of Willie and Laconia Branch, Arthur grew up in Gaston, South Carolina.
At the age of 18, Arthur enlisted in the US Army. With 35 years of service, he attained the rank of Sergeant First Class. He proudly served in the Korean War, earning a Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantry Badge.
Arthur is survived by his daughter, Marlene Belk (Russ) of Cayce; his grandchildren, Ryan Belk of Lexington, Lauren Sturkie (Tyler) of Cayce, Curtis Bowen of Newberry; great grandson, Luke Bowen; great granddaughter, Lila Sturkie; his sister, Mary Grace Spires and brother, Tommy Lee Branch. Married over 65 years, he was predeceased by his wife, Doris Spires Branch; daughter, Rhonda Branch Sanford; brothers, Delbert, Edward, and Charles Branch; sisters, Blondell Lucas, Mattie Sharpe, Giola Austin, Gladys Atkins, and Willie Mae Blaylock.
A follower of Christ, devoted husband and father, Arthur enjoyed traveling, fishing, and spending his days sitting in the swing on his covered porch. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.
Visitation will be on Saturday, September 11, 2021, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, West Columbia Chapel, 820 West Dunbar Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170. Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Chapter Columbia, 140 Stoneridge Drive, Columbia, SC 29120.
A service honoring the life of Arthur Branch is scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 12, 2021 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, West Columbia Chapel, 820 West Dunbar Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170, officiated by Rev. Bill Branch.
