Gary Don Branch, age 79, entered into eternal rest to the arms of Jesus on August 26, 2026, at his home in Poteau, Oklahoma, after a long battle with Parkinson disease. Gary was born in Russellville, Arkansas to Reginald and Norma (Parish) Branch. Gary attended Russellville Public Schools and graduated from Russellville High School. He went on to further his education at Arkansas Tech University, where he also worked hard to become a star football player as well. After obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree there, he went onto get his Master’s Degree at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. For over 48 years, he was a resident of Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he served as a football and track coach for Northside High School. He also proudly served his country through the Arkansas National Guard as a Command Sargent, before retiring after 37 years of service.
Gary was a faithful member of the Cavanaugh Free Will Baptist Church of Fort Smith, Arkansas for over 49 years. An avid golfer, Gary spent many hours on the golf course at Fianna Hills Country Club. One of his greatest pleasures was being able to play and travel with his grandchildren.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Jane Ann Cope Branch of the home; his two sons, Jason and wife Aime of Danville, Arkansas and Jeremy and wife Shelly of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, his three grandchildren, Garren, Rylee and Axl Branch of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida; his brother, Jerry and wife Ramona of Dublin, New Hampshire as well as many nieces, nephews other loved ones and friends.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Larry Branch and his sister, Sydney Domerese.
Mr. Gary Branch’s family would like to give a very special “Thank You” to Brittney and Kayleigh at San Bois Hospice also Kathy Mays and Heather Goff for the love and care they have shown to Gary and his family during this time.
Contributions in Gary’s honor can be made to Cavanaugh Freewill Baptist Children’s Ministry 2828 Briarcliff Ave Fort Smith, Arkansas.
The Celebration of Life Graveside Services for Gary will be held 11am – Monday, September 14, 2026, at the Fort Smith National Cemetery Pavillion with Rev. Johnnie Miller officiating and private inurnment by his family to follow in Fort Smith National Cemetery Columbarium section.
Online condolences can be made at www.holtfuneralandcremation.com
“Through Love, Serve One Another”
The Family of Gary Branch has entrusted his arrangements to Holt Funeral and Cremation, 522 Dewey Ave Poteau, OK 74953, (918) 721-0026. Poteau’s Only 100% Locally Owned and Family Operated Funeral Home – Our Family, Loving Your Family Through
Get Local News!
