William Branch Dies; Former Sitkan was 93
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- Created on Tuesday, 09 July 2024 13:45
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William Thomas Branch
William Thomas Branch, former Sitka pastor, passed away on May 31, 2024, on Bainbridge Island, Washington.
Born Oct. 2, 1930, and raised in and around Memphis, Tennessee, William, known as Bill, graduated from Humes High School in 1950.
His love story with his dear wife, Elizabeth (Libby) Combes, began in the eighth grade, culminating in marriage on June 11, 1950.
In 1953, Bill embarked on a 20-year journey of service in the Air Force, traversing through Ohio, Tennessee, South Dakota, Japan, Florida, and Alaska, including a solitary year in Iceland. During his time in Florida, Bill also served as a pastor at a small Baptist Church.
Upon leaving the Air Force, Bill pursued his calling to ministry, serving as the pastor of Monroe Baptist Church in Arkansas while studying at Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary in Memphis, Tennessee.
Relocating to Alaska in 1976, Bill continued his pastoral duties, leading congregations at First Baptist Church in Sitka and North Kenai Baptist Church in Nikiski, until his retirement.
In 2003, Bill and Elizabeth “Libby” settled in Sequim, Washington. Bill and Libby shared a marriage of 63 years and four months when she passed in 2013.
Known for his unwavering faith, Bill devoted his life to sharing the Gospel and serving as a pastor, leaving an indelible impact on those he encountered. He was actively involved in mission trips to Japan, Hawaii, and across the United States. In Alaska, he served on the Executive Board of the Alaska Baptist Convention and continued his ministry at Hillcrest Baptist Church in Port Angeles during retirement.
Fondly referred to as “Bro. Bill” by his congregations, his and Libby’s love for Jesus Christ and His church was evident to all who knew them.
He is survived by his three daughters, Debbie and Mike Green of Keizer, Oregon, Sharon and Nick Ward of Sequim, Washington, and Beverly Frost of Sitka. Additionally, he leaves behind seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death were his loving wife Elizabeth Branch, granddaughter Becky Ward, son, father Albert Branch, brother Albert Branch Jr., and sisters Louise Castor, Ruby Carey, and Alberta Reid.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill’s honor to Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. https://www.mabts.edu/give/.
Bill Branch’s family will attend a military graveside service 1 p.m. August 2 at 45 Monroe Road, Port Angeles, Washington. Afterward, family and friends are welcome to attend a celebration of Bill’s life from 3 to 5 p.m., at 461 Dungeness Meadows Clubhouse, Sequim,Washington.
Those planning on attending are asked to R.S.V.P. via text or call Sharon Ward (daughter) at 360-460-7802 or P.O. Box 3028 Sequim, by July 20.
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