Sam Branson

JACKSON, Miss. - Samuel Lee Branson, 79, formerly of Blodgett, Mo., died Oct. 17, 2006, at Central Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.

Born Oct. 9, 1927, in Blodgett, to the late John Samuel and Crealia Lee Chapell Branson, he retired after 31 years from Dairyman Inc. and was a member of the Woodville Heights Baptist Church.

He was married to Olean Newell Branson who preceded him in death on Aug. 14, 2006.

One daughter, Janice Ann Branson; and one brother, Richard Nial Branson also preceded him in death.

Survivors include: two sons and daughters-in-law, John F. and Patricia Branson of Jackson and Bill and Cathy Branson of Auburn, Ga.; one daughter, Charlotte M. Rushing of Tampa, Fla.; and four grandchildren, Chris Branson, Chad Branson, Justin Branson and Jessica Branson.

Visitation will be from 8:30 a.m. until time of services at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Nunnelee Funeral Chapel in Sikeston, Mo. The Rev. Robert C. "Bob" Bowen will officiate.

Burial will follow in Garden of Memories Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: John Branson, Bill Branson, Chris Branson, Chad Branson, Justin Branson and Matthew Cain.