James Stephen Branum

Steve was born on December 20, 1949, in Kennett, Missouri, to Charley and Juanita Branum. He grew up near Hornersville, Missouri, where he began helping his father on the family farm at the age of five. His early years on the farm helped shape the hardworking and capable man he would become.

Steve graduated from Senath-Hornersville High School in 1967 and attended Arkansas State University from 1967 to 1970. He then proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1970 to 1974. During his service, he was stationed in Thailand and worked in aircraft radio maintenance.

After his military service, Steve built a long career as a manufacturers’ sales representative. He retired from Erickson Sales, Inc. in 2017.

Steve was an active and longtime member of Geyer Springs First Baptist Church, where he spent many years serving faithfully on the audio-visual team. His love of technology, music, and helping behind the scenes made this a meaningful part of his life and service to his church family.

Steve was known for his goofy personality, quick wit, love of technology, musical interests, and his ability to talk your ear off. He loved telling a good joke—often laughing at his own jokes before anyone else had a chance to—and his distinctive laugh was affectionately teased by his children over the years. He never seemed to run out of stories to tell or things to talk about.

After retirement, Steve especially enjoyed traveling to visit his children and grandchildren in Texas, California, and New York. He also found great enjoyment in fishing and spending time outdoors.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Carmen Branum; his children, Stephanie Hernandez (Adam), Jennifer Win (Mark), and David Branum (Liz); and his grandchildren, Jessica, Sasha, Joshua, Emilia, and Oliver. He is also survived by his former son-in-law and friend, Raul Hernandez, who remained a close and cherished part of Steve’s life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charley and Juanita Branum, and his brother, Charles Brent Branum.

Steve will be deeply missed by his family, friends, church family, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His stories, laughter, sense of humor, and unique personality will live on in the memories of those who loved him.

A memorial service will be held at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM with a visitation starting at 2:00 PM