Jane Worthington Branch, affectionately known as “Nanny,” passed away at the remarkable age of 102, leaving a beautiful legacy of faith, family, and service.
Born in Birmingham, Alabama, to Paul Butler Worthington and Donna White Worthington, Jane contributed to the Manhattan Project in Chicago during World War II before moving to Atlanta in 1945. She spent most of her life in Sandy Springs, Georgia.
Jane was the devoted wife of Franklin Thomas Branch, who preceded her in death on June 11, 2003. Both only-children, they built an extraordinary family spanning generations. Though Jane longed to be reunited with Franklin, she continued to embrace life joyfully, surrounded by the family she treasured.
A devoted Christian, Jane faithfully taught the Alethea Sunday School Class at Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist Church for decades. Jane was also a longtime member of the philanthropic organization PEO, Chapter B. Through teaching, mentoring, and community service, she sought to live her life's purpose: “to demonstrate God's love according to the teachings and Way of our Lord, Christ Jesus.”
In addition to her parents, Nanny has found eternal peace alongside her beloved husband Frank Branch, Son-In-Law Steven D. Harris, and Daughter-In-Law Mary Frances Branch. Nanny is survived by Franklin Taylor Branch and his wife, Christina Macy, of Baltimore, Maryland; Gary Worthington Branch and his wife, Deborah Wigley Branch, of Sandy Springs, Georgia; Donna Lucille Branch and her husband Charles Ray Farlow, of Tybee Island, Georgia; Cherry Branch Harris of Sandy Springs, Georgia; Thomas Randall Branch and his wife, Carla Ditrick Branch, of Cartersville, Georgia; and David Austin Branch of Bangor, Maine. She is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.
Jane's 102 years were a testimony to God's grace. Her unwavering faith, love for family, and servant's heart will continue to inspire generations.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
In lieu of flowers, Jane requested donations be made to Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist Church here - https://onrealm.org/spdl/-/form/give/now - where you will find a drop-down menu with the option “In Memory/Honor of (Specify in Memo)”
