Charlotte was born in Victoria, Texas on October 27,1946 to the late John Albert Decker and Marie Drost Decker DeAtley. She was predeceased by her husband of 47 years, Donald R. Branham, and her step-father Donald H. DeAtley. She is survived by her son John Derek Branham of Conroe, TX; sisters Carol Decker of The Woodlands, TX, Cynthia (Ronald) Brandt of The Woodlands, TX, Clarice Havens of Victoria, TX, and brother John (Penny) Decker of Victoria, TX; 2 step-sons, 4 step-daughters, 16 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 4 nieces and 3 nephews.
Charlotte graduated from Victoria High School in Victoria, TX in 1965. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church for over 45 years, an active member of the Panorama Lions Club, 30 year member of Montgomery County Crime Stoppers, past president of the Panorama Garden Club, and previously active for 26 years with American Business Women's Association and 13 years with the Montgomery County United Way. She has also served on the board of the Montgomery County Commission on Aging and was a Life Member of both the Montgomery County Fair Association and Montgomery County Performing Arts. Charlotte was very involved in Don's business pursuits, and over the years owned businesses that sold unique gifts, jewelry, clothing, and antiques.
Charlotte was witty and fun-loving. She traveled the world with her husband, Don, affectionately known as "Big Daddy", and entertained friends and family alike with lively stories about their experiences together. On the frequent occasions when she was running late, she typically reported in as "on the feeder" which we suspected to mean "I'm leaving the house any minute now." Most of all she loved to spend time with family, friends, playing golf in her spare time and her sweet little dogs. Her sisters will all miss playing "dirty gin" with her through thick and thin.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or to the no-kill dog rescue of your choice.
