James Harry Branch

Born July 9, 1932 in Buckingham, VA, he was a son of the late Clarence Russell and Elizabeth (Wilkerson) Branch. James was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Prior to retirement, James was employed by Stanley Furniture where he worked for over 20 years as a forklift operator. He was a faithful member of Gospel Light Baptist Church, Waynesboro. James known best to his family as “Papa” will be remembered for his gentle soul and kind and patient ways. He was a family man, and adored spending time with them. James also loved to coon hunt, go horseback riding, and tend to his flower garden. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend to many.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Alice (Payne) Branch; grandson, Ezra James Bennett; six brothers; and six sisters.

Survivors include his three children, James H. Branch, Jr. and wife, Delores, of Richardsville, VA, Jerry W. Branch of Waynesboro, and Donna Merriken and husband, Doug, of Waynesboro; five grandchildren, Jessica Pickwoad, Spencer Branch, Sarah Holmes, Jennifer Apple, and Casey Bodnarik; loved former daughter-in-law, Connie Branch of Waynesboro; and numerous great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

Friends may stop by and pay their respects from 12:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at the Waynesboro Chapel of Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes, 618 W. Main St., Waynesboro.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025 at Hebron Baptist Church Cemetery, 2 Tanbark Dr., Afton, with Pastor Joey Locklear officiating. All who plan to attend are asked to meet directly at the cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Sarah Holmes, Eric Holmes, Jessica Pickwoad, Nolan Bennett, Ryan Pickwoad, James “Jimmy” Branch, Jr., and Jerry Branch.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes of Waynesboro.

Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com