Obituary
In historical research, the name David comes from the Hebrew language meaning "beloved". King David, a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, is the most well-known bearer of the name. In a spiritual context, the name David can represent being favored by God, loved by a higher power, and possessing a heart that is devoted to spiritual matters. The name is associated with strength, courage, and leadership. King David's defeat of Goliath, his musical abilities, and his role as a king all contribute to the symbolism of the name. King David was a key figure in the Bible, as was David Branch, in the lives of many. On July 3, 2025 at 2:11 PM, David Branch left his earthly home to join his heavenly home.
David Barrie Branch, 64 of Dinwiddie, Virginia was born on May 15, 1961, to the late Queen Skelton and Albert Branch.
David attended Petersburg High School. He devoted his life to his family, especially his children. He was a hard worker and was known as David from PrimeTime and then Aaron’s. David was loved by every person he encountered, and made each person he met feel special and cared for. Known by many as Wimp and Barrie, he loved making others laugh and breaking out into the boogaloo.
David was a kind and loving father and husband. He was a selfless leader, a peacemaker, and a generous friend.
David was an avid Walmart shopper, where he would go nightly. He also loved Golden Corral and would suggest it for any and every occasion. His favorite show was “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” in which he watched almost daily as much as the 11 O’Clock News.
In addition to his mother and father, he was preceded in death by his son, DeShawn David Branch, his brother Al Antonio (Moe) Branch, niece Shannon Williams, nephew Tyrail Hughes, and bonus-parent Ernestine Johnson.
Left to cherish his memories are his loving and devoted wife of 43 years, Sarah Branch; his daughters, Chloe Tanner, Keisha Branch and Ebony Branch (Daijah); his grandson and super hero, Christopher Lee, Jr. (CJ) and granddaughter Gabriella Branch, affectionately known by him as “Doogie Doo”. He was a cherished brother to three brothers, Patrick Branch of Newport News, Va., George Skelton Jr. of Newport News, Va., and Percy Skelton (Pam) of Petersburg, Va.; two sisters, Constantine Foreman of Newport News, Va., and Robin Skelton (Felix) of Petersburg, Va.; one devoted niece, Katrina Morgan (Cleveland) of Newport News, Va., four nephews— Orantho (OJ), Dejuan, Tyrone and Jason; five nieces— Ajai, Shan’e, Jessica, Qiana, and Sheryl; great nephews and nieces, Jazmine, Onesha, Tamar, Jamila, Cleveland Jr., and Prince; numerous friends including Sylvia Medina, Tammie Reid, George Macklin, Cornelius Johnson (Belinda), Antonio Medina, Debra Raines, and Jason Booker, along with a host of other relatives and close friends, too many to name, who will miss him dearly.
A public viewing will be held from 4 pm to 8 pm on Friday, July 11, 2025 at J.L. Dodson and Sons Funeral Establishment in Petersburg, Virginia.
Celebration of life service for Mr. David Barrie Branch will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025 1pm at Trinity Missionary Baptist Church Of God In Christ 233 Halifax St. Petersburg, Virginia, Minister Katrina Morgan, Eulogist . Interment will follow in the Dinwiddie Memorial Park, 7324 Church Road, Petersburg Virginia.
The family is asking relatives and friends to assemble at the church on day of service at 12:45 pm.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.
Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of J. L. Dodson and Sons Funeral Establishment 25824 Greensville Avenue Petersburg Virginia 23803 Dinwiddie County, (804) 732-5959 and (804)834-3330. Bishop Jeffrey L. Dodson, Sr. Funeral Director and Mr. Ricky Montgomery, Funeral Director, Online condolences may be registered at www.jldodsonandsons.com. “Our Family Servicing Your Family”
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