With his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Grady Branch, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and dear friend of Baxley, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Bacon County Hospital. Grady was born on March 9, 1930, in Appling County, to the late Cliff Branch and the late Gussie Hall Branch.
A devoted member of Spring Branch Baptist Church, Grady served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher, leaving an indelible mark on his community. His selfless service extended into the community as he owned Tastee Freeze and served as the proprietor of Grady Branch Heating and Cooling. Grady also contributed his leadership to the community as a member of the Board of Directors for Baxley Federal Savings. Additionally, he proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict in the Army.
Grady’s greatest joy in life was the time spent with his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, and the extensive circle of family and friends that surrounded him.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Carolyn Beecher Branch of Baxley; loving daughters, Brenda L. Branch and Dana (Eddie) Rentz, both of Baxley; two grandchildren, Patrick (Madison) Rentz of Savannah and Caroline Rentz of Baxley. Grady is also fondly remembered by his special sister-in-law, Patsy Buchannan, also of Baxley, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services to celebrate Grady’s life will be held on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Spring Branch Baptist Church. The service will be officiated by Reverend Tommy Daniels, Reverend Ryan Lamb, and Reverend Rick Brown, with a heartfelt eulogy by Eddie Rentz. Interment will follow at Omega Cemetery.
Acting as active pallbearers to honor Grady’s memory will be James Clark, Luke Hutchinson, Jonathan Mann, Adam Smith, Will Smith, and Eduardo Zavala. All family and friends in attendance will be considered honorary pallbearers.
Visitation for friends and loved ones will take place on Wednesday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Spring Branch Baptist Church.
The family expresses profound gratitude for the visits from friends and family and acknowledges the exceptional kindness and care extended by Appling EMS, Appling Healthcare, Memorial University, and Dr. Harrison Carter, along with all the staff at Bacon County Hospital.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Swain Funeral Home. May his love for Jesus Christ continue to bring comfort and solace to those who knew and loved him.
