James "J.D." Branson

James "J.D." Branson, 91, of Riverton, died at 1:51 a.m. on Monday, September 19, 2016 at Sunny Acres. J.D. was born January 7, 1925 in Greenview, the son of Henry and Grace Durrett Branson. He married Mary "Annie" Hudspeth on June 10, 1966 in Springfield; she preceded him in death on December 7, 2009. J.D. attended Easton Community High School and proudly served his country in the United States Navy during WWII as a Gunner's Mate Third Class. He was employed as an Over the Road Truck Driver for ADM in Decatur and previously owned and operated Jim & Annie's Tavern. He was a member of the VFW Post 10302 and AMVETS in Greenview. J.D. was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and loved spending time with his family. He was also preceded in death by his parents; son, Kirby Simmering; and grandson, Kelly Stufflebeam. He is survived by his son, Kevin (wife, Kathi) Simmering of Riverton; daughters, Linda (husband, Don) Daugherty of Springfield, Jeanne (husband, Peter) Campo of Riverton, Karla (husband, Allen) Janssen of Greenview, Nancy (husband, Gary) Bartels of Chandlerville, Kim Peterman of Springfield, Karen Johnson of Springfield, and Kay (husband, Ron) Lee of Sherman; six grandchildren, Darrin Stufflebeam, Chad (wife, Shannon) Bartels, Krystal (husband, Charlie) Heriford, Tyler Simmering, Karly (husband, Tony) McLaughlin, and Bryan Grieme; and six great-grandchildren. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 10:0011:45 a.m. on Friday, September 23, 2016 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Memorial Ceremony: 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 23, 2016 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Please feel free to wear your favorite Cubs attire to the ceremonies. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park with military honors provided by Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County and Navy. Memorial contributions may be made to: Disabled American Veterans, 25 Club Area, Springfield, IL 62712.