BRANTON

Herndon Reginald Branton, 78, passed away Monday, April 22, 2013, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Bogalusa on April 18, 1935, he graduated form Bogalusa High School, and served honorably in the United States Army. He served as Sergeant, Airborne Ranger, and paratrooper during the Korean War. He retired from George H. Leihleitner, as a salesman, after completing 15 years with the company. He has since continued his sales career, until time of his death.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Brenda Merritt Branton; one daughter, Jill Branton Tamboli; two grandsons, Trevor Branton Tamboli and Tyler Branton Tamboli; He is also survived by his sister, Louise Branton Parker (Billy Ray); and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Joseph Branton and Alma Parker Branton; his first wife, Delores Williams Branton; a son, Herndon Reginald Branton Jr.; two brothers, A. J. Branton (Doris) and Howard Branton (Allie); and three sisters, Lennie Wheat (Willis), Rosemond Williams (Curt) and Henrietta Bell (Ken).

Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 24 at Brown-McGehee Funeral Home from 6-9 p.m., and will continue on Thursday from 9 a.m. until time for the funeral service at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Lee’s Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. Rev. Jay Johnston will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations are to be made to First Baptist Church in Covington.

Family and friends may view and sign the online guestbook at www.brownmcgehee.com.