Lena Mary Branch

On Sunday, July 4, 2021, Mother Lena Mary Jones-Branch transitioned to her eternal home at 100 years old. Lena Mary Jones was born on December 18, 1920, to Felix Jones, Sr., and Phillis Smith Jones.

Lena received her early education by being taught the tenets of Christianity in her home by her loving parents. At an early age, Lena accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior. She was baptized in the Black River in Jonesville, LA, by Rev. George Washington of Saint Mary Missionary Baptist Church of Jonesville, LA. Always faithful and dedicated, her life was of service to the Lord.

As a child, Lena received her public education in Jonesville, LA. She attended Grambling College in Grambling, LA, where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Education. Throughout her educational pursuits, she received many certificates and awards from institutions of higher learning.

Lena Mary Jones and Samuel Branch were united in holy matrimony on December 25, 1940. They were blessed with one son, Samuel (Sonny) Branch, Jr. This institution of marriage lasted for more than fifty years.

Mrs. Lena Branch’s professional career as an educator began in Catahoula Parish, where she taught school for more than forty years. She used her experience and expertise to mentor many young people in the community, both in spiritual and educational matters.

Mother Lena was very active in life. She was a member of the Eastern Star, Queen Esther Chapter 78. She served in many capacities: Worthy Grand Matron, Worthy Grand Associate Secretary, Associate Secretary, and on the Board of Directors.

Mother Lena Branch leaves in God’s care: her two grandsons, Samuel (Sammy) and Sean Branch; one great-grandson, Shon; daughter-in-law, Violet Bowman-Branch of Baton Rouge, LA; one sister, Shirley J. Spillers (Mark) of Brooklyn, NY; one brother-in-law, Dave Richardson (Vera J.); one sister-in-law, Joyce Dunbar-Jones (Harvey) of Flint, MI; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and friends; Adriane (Val) Rhone and the Redman Family; five godchildren, Norma Dunbar, Shirley Ann Brackins-Dawson, Bernita Johnson, Jacqulin Joseph, and Milton Brown.

We give honor and thanks to Joe and Gloria Duncan for opening their home, sharing their family, and providing dedicated care to our Lena for six and one-half years. To God be the Glory, for the things he has done.

Mother Lena Branch was preceded in death by her parents, Felix Jones, Sr., and Phillis Jones; her husband, Samuel Branch, Sr.; her son, Samuel Branch, Jr.; three sisters, Dorothy J. Dunbar, Odessa J. Joseph Jennins, and Vera J. Richardson; and seven brothers, Johnny, LJ, Charley, Samuel (Sam), Felix Jr., Ike, and Harvey.

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