Ricky Sterlin Branch

Ricky was born to Louise and Robert Branch, Jr. in Pocatello, ID where he spent his childhood and young adult years. He grew up with 5 siblings, Leona, Rita, Stephanie, Robert, and Suzette. He is survived by his wife, Holly, daughter Jasmine, and son Ricky Jalen (RJ), sisters Leona Minfield-Willie, Rita Branch-Davis, Stephanie Branch-Hesleph and husband Jackie, brothers Robert Branch and wife Dawn, and numerous nieces and nephews including Raquel, Nolan, Tiffany, Kam, Shalimar, Remington, Jaison, Rashad, Morgan, Adrian, Bobby, Alyssa, Joey, Tomas, Kylie, Austin, Solvei, and Jocelyn. He was preceded in death by his sisters Vinicia Branch and Suzette Branch, his father Robert Branch Jr., and his mother Louise Branch.

Ricky’s passion was coaching, and he could break down the mechanics of any sport. He spent years coaching youth baseball and basketball, helping to launch CYB as a competitive AAU basketball organization. As the owner of B-Ready Sports Performance Training, he later coached individual athletes to enhance the skills necessary to excel in their respective sports. He revered hard work over talent and often told his athletes to “embrace the process; you must learn to crawl before you walk and walk before you run”. Outside of sports he enjoyed traveling, live music, and meeting up with his family for a fun weekend at the lake or in Las Vegas.

Most of all Ricky was a protector, especially of his family. When you needed him, he never hesitated. He was immensely proud of his children and bragged about them often. He loved watching them play and grow in the world of sports and in life. Ricky advocated for those less fortunate and kept snacks, water, shoes, clothes, and blankets in the back of his car to offer those he encountered in need on the streets. His impact on our lives will be missed.

Over the past year, Ricky faced cancer with incredible courage and grace. We wish we had more time to talk, laugh, and play with him. But we know he is in a place where cancer can no longer rob him of his energy and strength. He will still be our protector from heaven, and we can’t wait to see him again.

The services will be held at Funeraria Del Angel (10333 Alondra Blvd Bellflower, CA) at 10:00 am on August 17th, 2025.