Bob James Branch

"Sunset and evening star, And one clear call from me.
And may there be no moaning of the bar, When I put out to sea...

      Bob James Branch, began his earthly pilgrimage on February 21, 194,  in Severn, (Northampton County) North Carolina. He was born to the parentage of the late Curtis Branch, Sr. and Mattie Lee Whitehead Branch. 
     'BJ', as he was fondly called,  was educated in the Northampton County School System.  On July 30, 1966, he was inducted in the United States Marines Corp; serving his country during the Vietnam War.  After his tour of duty, he settled in Norfolk, Virginia, before making his home in Chesapeake.   For over 20 years, he was gainfully employed with the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard; prior to his retirement in 2006. 
     Bob was blessed with four children.  He loved his family dearly, and there was nothing he wouldn't do for them.  He held a very special place in his heart for a last living sister.  Bob always instilled in his children, nieces and nephews, the importance of education and to always complete what you start.     
     On Tuesday, October 24, 2017, Bob peacefully transitioned from earthly life, unto eternal rest; while in the comfort of his home.  In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by:  six brothers, Curtis Branch, Jr., Hurley Branch, Airfield Branch, Thomas Branch, James Branch and Horace Branche, Sr. 
     Cherished memories will forever remain in the hearts of:  two daughters, Kisha L. Fennell of Bronx, New York and LaTasha Turner of Norfolk, Virginia; two sons, Roshawn D. Turner of Norfolk, Virginia and Albert M. Grant of Severn, North Carolina; twelve grandchildren, Kevin Fennell, Erica Abel, Kayla Fennell, LaTasha Simonson, Keandre Chatman, Starlet Turner, Amir Turner, Davion Turns, Michael Turns, Allaijah Grant, Allijah Grant and Tywon Tolefree; six great-grandchildren, Kamira Fennell, Madison Faison, Kamira Abel, Deon Turner, India Simonson and  Gabrielle Simonson; his loving, sister, Elizabeth Bynum of Pendleton, North Carolina; a special nephew, whom he loved just as a son, Horace L. Branche, Jr. of Chesapeake, Virginia; a host of nieces, nephews cousins and friends. 

...For tho' from out our bourne of time and place,
The flood may bear me far, I hope to see my Pilot face to face,
 When I have crossed the bar."

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