OBITUARY
Kenneth Joe Brannon
November 16, 1935 – February 22, 2021
Greensboro – Kenneth Joe Brannon, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday February 22, 2021 at Well-Spring Retirement Community. A private service will be livestreamed at 2:00 p.m. pm, Saturday, February 27 at fbcgso.org/memorial. Mr. Brannon will lie in state Friday, from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., at Hanes-Lineberry N. Elm Chapel. Kenneth was preceded in death by his father, Odell Brannon and mother, Ione Robbins Brannon; sisters, Jenelle Gallman (Billy), Joyce Cantey (Gilbert) and brother-in-law James Smith (Ruth Ann & Peggy). Kenneth was born November 16, 1935. He graduated from Great Falls High School (1953 Valedictorian) from Furman University (1957) and had a degree from The American Institute of Banking. Before beginning his career at Peoples National Bank of Greenville SC, Kenneth served in the US Army followed by 8 years in the reserves. He later moved the family to Nashville TN where he worked at Lifeway for 27 years (Baptist Sunday School Board). Continuing his work with Lifeway, he transferred to Greenville and then Greensboro where they have called home for 45 years. Following ‘retirement’, he worked at Jefferson Pilot and Baptist Campus Ministries at UNCG. His church family was very important to him. Kenneth was a 45 year member of First Baptist Church of Greensboro where he served as a deacon, served on numerous committees including pastor search, sang in the choir and served in the Music, College, Singles and his beloved Happy Hearts Ministries. Never the one to lay idle, he was an avid volunteer at Moses Cone Hospital, Greensboro Urban Ministries, Junior Achievement of Nashville, and Sertoma International in Greenville. Kenneth is survived by his wife of 63 years Joye Smith Brannon, son Brad Brannon (Sheryl), daughter Beth Barwick (Joey), all of Greensboro. Other survivors are grandchildren, Julie Brannon (Jen) of Schenectady NY, Dr. Samuel Brannon (Reverend Heather) of Millburn NJ, Tracie Hummel (Stephen) of Tucson AZ, Abigail Nettesheim (Dr. Matthew) of Greensboro, Dr. Brannon Kling (Kristin) of Greensboro, Rebecca Brannon of High Point and J.P. Barwick (Hannah) of Graham; great grandchildren, Cole and Laney Hummel and Conley Kling; nieces and nephews Gil, Terri, Meredith, Charles, Jimmy, Libby, Drew and Walter Kling - Brannon’s father. The family is most appreciative of the staff at the skilled care facility at Well-Spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the music ministries of First Baptist Church 1000 West Friendly Avenue or Well-Spring Benevolence Fund 4100 Well Spring Drive, both of Greensboro NC. Online condolences may be made at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com.
FAMILY
- Odell and Ione Robbins Brannon, Parents
- Joye Smith Brannon, Wife
- Brad and Sheryl Brannon, Son & Daughter-in-law
- Beth and Joey Barwick, Daughter & Son-in-law
- Also surviving are grandchildren, Julie (Jen) Brannon, Dr. Samuel Brannon (Reverend Heather), Tracie Hummel (Stephen), Abigail Nettesheim (Dr. Matthew), Dr. Brannon Kling (Kristin) (Kristin), Rebecca Brannon and J.P. Barwick (Hannah); great grandchildren, Cole and Laney Hummel and Conley Kling; nieces and nephews, Gil, Terri, Meredith, Charles, Jimmy, Libby and Drew and Walter Kling- Brannon's Father. In addition to his parents , sisters, Janell Gallman andJoyce Cantey and brother-in-law, James Smith preceded him in death.
Services
A Private Memorial Service will be held at First Baptist Church, Greensboro
Memories
Kenneth Joe Brannon
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYCary Root
March 1, 2021
Joye, You, Ken and I connected over our relationship with our dear friend Wanda Russell. And Joye, I always searched for you and Ken when we had service to speak with. Your kindness filled my bucket. I learned of Ken's passing through the Service on line February 28th from our Pastor Alan Sherouse. I must tell you I was shocked. With this Virus and not seeing you in person, I did not know anything. Ken was always my hero. He always sought me out whenever I was able to be with everyone at church. Like you, I am a 50 year member, joining when I was 9 years old and Baptized by Dr. Bowen. During my college years I did attend church with my roommate. I will miss Ken so much and did try to phone you. God Bless You. Cary
Jess Grassi
February 28, 2021
Joye, my daughter Ann told me of Kens passing while we were riding to my son Mike’s home on Saturday night. Please accept my deepest condolences for I truly understand what you are going through. Your were the perfect couple and I know you will miss Ken dearly.
Sincerely, Jess Grassi
Sylvia Curl
February 27, 2021
Joye, I am saddened so much by Ken’s death. Chris sent me a text telling me about his death and he said he was sad. You all meant so much to Chris and Paula while they were at First Baptist. When I visited them and saw you two you just lit up the room. So glad we had another tie—that Gerald and Ken went to same university. Prayers for you and the family. Sincerely, Sylvia Curl
Tom and Betsy Maynard
February 26, 2021
Dear Joye,
We are so sorry for your loss. Kenneth had such a kind spirit. We always enjoyed our visits with you at Ruth Anne and Jim's home during the holidays. You and your family will be in our prayers.
Love always,
Betsy and Tom
Joy Timmons
February 26, 2021
Joye & family - so sorry to hear about Kenneth - may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest - he fought the good fight for a long time - i will always remember my mother referring to Kenneth as "comfortable as an old shoe," meaning he was always easygoing, full of laughter, & comfortable to be in his presence - we love you & pray God will hold you in the palm of His hand - Joy & Wayne Timmons, Spartanburg, SC
Tom and Betsy Maynard
February 26, 2021
Dear Joye,
We are so sorry for your loss. Kenneth had such a kind spirit. We always enjoyed our visits with you at Ruth Anne and Jim's home during the holidays. You and your family will be in our prayers.
Love always,
Betsy and Tom
Evelyn Robinson
February 25, 2021
Brad, Sheryl and Rebecca and family,
My deepest sympathies to all of you in your loss. I know where he is by reading his obituary of his dedicated life to the Lord. You were so very dear to me when you came to Parkway Church.
Sincerely,
Evelyn
Marcia Cinato
February 25, 2021
Dear Joye,
Sending my condolences across the ocean to you and yours. It is never easy. It is always too soon.
Take your time to grieve, but don't forget to count your many, many blessings.
Love, marcia mathews cinato
Kathleen Wiglesworth-Perdue
February 25, 2021
Joye,
Deepest sympathy for your family’s loss. Ken was such a joy to be around (as were you) during my and sister Lynn’s youth choir days at FBC. Our thoughts and prayers go with you always.
Sincerely,
Kathleen “Kay” Wiglesworth Perdue
Grey Cockerham
February 25, 2021
Dear Joy we are so sorry about Ken he means so much to the happy hearts class we miss him so much please take care of yourself we love you so much be happy hearts class
Thomas Little
February 24, 2021
I will always cherish our time together on the FBC Greensboro Pastor Search Committee- he was, no doubt, our spiritual leader. He always had a smile and made everyone else smile. He will be missed, but remains in our memories and our lives. Joye is in my prayers.
Craig Pannell
February 24, 2021
Ken was a Beacon of Light throughout all my years at FBC....He and Joye worked so hard and brought so many folks together.....I will ALWAYS cherrish those memories....LOVE and Healing Light to the whole Brannon Family.....May God wrap his arms around you and give you comfort....
Becky Marshall
February 24, 2021
Joye,
Joel and I send our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Becky and Joel Marshall
REVS DRS BILL AND CYNTHIA CAMPBELL
February 23, 2021
Our sympathy and blessings to you at this time.
Bill and Cynthia Campbell
NC Baptist Singetrs and Orchestra
Cindy Beaver
February 23, 2021
So very sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy. Cindy and David Beaver -NCBSO
Cheryl Angel
February 23, 2021
Joye and family,
David and I grieve with you in the loss of Ken. He was always such an inspiration - genuine, kind, attentive, a wonderful gentleman. His testimonies and love of our God were evident in all he did, be it with the choir, the Happy Hearts, or any other church function where he could serve. Joye, you have been the most devoted, loving and supportive spouse to your Kenneth. You provided us a such a perfect example of living a devoted wonderful life together.
We will keep you in our prayers in the days ahead as I know they will be difficult. Know that you are loved and we will do anything we can for you. May God’s peace and wonderful memories help in your grief, till you meet again.
Angie Jones
February 23, 2021
Dear Brannon family,
I never had the pleasure of meeting most of you, but my mother, Sylvia Outen Williamson and Joye were part of the "Big 8" friend group at Furman. My mom passed away in 2001, but she loved to tell me of her friends, Joye and Ken. The group would meet at the Baldwin's house for a weekend of reminiscing and catching up. She would come home full of love, stories, and lasting friendship. Your family meant a great deal to her and I wanted you to know how very sorry I am that you are grieving the loss of Ken. I am certain that she and my dad welcomed Ken with open arms and are having a great time reminiscing. May you all experience comfort and peace in the coming days.
Zach Roberts
February 23, 2021
Ken was a wonderful friend and a great help to me and the Baptist Campus Ministry at UNCG back in the early 2000s. When I think of my time in Greensboro and the many wonderful people who welcomed me and made that town feel like home, Ken and Joy Brannon are some of the first who come to mind. I am so grateful to have known Ken, and will never forget his kindness, compassion, and welcoming spirit.
My deepest sympathies to Joy and the Brannon family. Sending love and grieving with you all from Norfolk, VA.
Love,
Zach
Carol Bowden Hodgin
February 22, 2021
Joye,
My heart is broken for you. While we’ve not seen one another in many years, you and your sweet husband are forever in my memory. I thank you for your continual kindness toward my father, Don Bowden, during the many years you lead the choir at FBC. Losing the love of your life cannot be easy. But I rejoice with you in knowing Ken is in the presence of Jesus at this very moment. You will most assuredly be with him again in heaven. May Jesus comfort your heart and bring you peace, my sweet friend. Praying for you.
Carol Bowden Hodgin
Susan and Bret Kunar
February 22, 2021
Praying for your family and giving thanks to a life well lived! What an inspiration! How to live and love and exemplify the body of Christ! He was a treasure to us and to your family. He leaves behind a great legacy! I know you will miss him dearly.
Love to you Joye, Brad, and Beth and the entire family!!
Susan and Bret Kunar
Janice Newsom
February 22, 2021
Joye, you both have meant so much to David and me since joining FBC many years ago. Kenneth was a wonderful gentleman and had a loving spirit. His singing voice was heart warming. I’ll never forget that he agreed to sing a special hymn for my deacon ordination, what 30 years ago? I can still hear his sweet voice. A treasured memory. Never forgotten. My prayers are with you Joye and your whole family. Janice Newsom
Scott Lyle
February 22, 2021
Dear sweet Joye, Brannon, and family.
I only saw Ken in the context of church events. Every time, every-time he was kind and genuinely interested when he asked how I was, family. He was always present when we chatted. I enjoyed singing in choir with him. His soft and gentle sense of humor always added to the peace of the moment. I still remember the testimony he gave a couple of years ago and the song he used.
"The longer serve Him, the sweeter He grows, The more that I love Him, more love He bestows;
Each day is like heaven, my heart overflows,
The longer I serve Him, the sweeter He grows."
Peace be with you all.
We love you.
Scott Lyle