Willard "Sonny" Herman Branch Jr.

Willard "Sonny" Herman Branch Jr., 74 beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication. Born on January 31, 1950, in Morganton, North Carolina, Sonny was the cherished son of Jean Beach McDaniel and Willard Herman Branch Sr.

Sonny's early years were spent in Morganton, where he attended Oak Hill High School. His academic journey continued at Gardner Webb College from 1969 to 1970, followed by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he studied from 1970 to 1974. His pursuit of excellence led him to Charlotte Memorial Hospital for Anesthesia School from 1974 to 1976.

In addition to his educational accomplishments, Sonny served his country with honor. He was a Captain in the Army Reserves and later a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy Reserves, embodying the values of duty, honor, and patriotism.

Sonny's professional career as a Nurse Anesthetist was distinguished and impactful. For 22 years, he provided compassionate care at Carteret General Hospital. He further enhanced the medical community at Cummings Plastic Surgery for 19 years and Onslow Memorial Hospital for 5 years. His dedication to his patients and his profession was unwavering.

In 2006, after 23 years in Morehead City, Sonny and his family moved to New Bern. He was a man of many passions, including a deep love for golf, hunting, and fishing. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, reflected in his 23 years as a member of Shepherd of the Sea Lutheran Church and his current membership at Garber Methodist Church.

Sonny's greatest joy came from his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Sharon, a loving father to his son, Jason, daughter-in-law Melanie, son, Scott, daughter-in-law, Katie, daughter, Morgan, and son-in-law, Matt. He was also a proud grandfather to Madison, Wesley, Emma, Avery, Julie, and Miller. Sonny's family was the heart of his life, and his love for them was boundless.

He is preceded in death by his father, Willard Herman Branch Sr., in 1970; grandfather, Wallow Wesley Beach in 1986; stepfather, Thomas Bennett McDaniel in 2001; grandmother, Mary Fleming Beach in 2005; and his mother; Jean Beach Branch McDaniel, in 2022. Sonny is survived by his wife, sons, daughter, grandchildren, and sister, Becky Branch Earley, who will cherish his memory forever.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Garber Methodist Church or Craven County Hospice, honoring Sonny's faith and commitment to his community.

A celebration of Sonny's life will be held at Garber Methodist Church on Friday, June 7 at 11:00 AM. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their condolences and support during this difficult time.

Sonny's legacy of love, service, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Arrangements by Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory