Richard A. Branum

Richard Allen Branum, 93, of Fort Smith, AR, passed away on January 5, 2023. Richard was born on August 17, 1929, to Victor and Ruth Branum in Muskogee, OK. He grew up there with his sister, Eleanor. After graduating high school, Richard attended Abilene Christian College. There he met the love of his life, Helen, and they married March 8, 1953. After marrying, the two moved to McGregor, TX, and Richard worked for Phillips Petroleum.

After a short time, they moved to Oklahoma City, OK, where Richard worked for Ryder Truck Rental. He and Helen grew their family by two, adopting their son, Richard Dale Branum in 1965, and daughter Melissa Anne Branum in 1966. The family of four then moved to Fort Smith, AR, in 1979, planting roots for the rest of their lives. Richard worked for ABF as an internal auditor until he retired in 1996. Richard loved to travel whether it was for work or fun, especially cruises, good food and most of all working in his yard.

He is survived by his children Richard Dale Branum of Centerton, AR, Melissa Branum of Bryan, TX, granddaughter Rachel Kerr and her husband Chaz and their son Ridge Kerr of Higden, AR, niece Monna Gilpin and husband James of Kingwood, TX, nephew Mike Miller and his wife Holly of Muskogee, OK, nephew Matt Miller and wife Monica of Muskogee, OK, and several cousins across the country.

He was preceded in death by his wife Helen Branum and parents, Victor and Ruth Branum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Richard’s honor can be sent to Southern Christian Home, located at 100 W Harding St., Morrilton, AR.