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Billy Joe Branch, born July 21, 1939, passed away at Our Lady of the Angels Hospital surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at the age of 83.

He was employed with Temple Inland and retired after 43 years. He enjoyed woodworking and craftsmanship. Billy Joe was an avid classic car collector and he enjoyed car shows and Cruisin the Coast. His love for music inspired him to learn to play many musical instruments, which he excelled at. He loved attending the Gospel Music Festival twice a year in Mountain View, Ark.

Billy was a dedicated member of Ben’s Ford Baptist Church. He loved serving the Lord in all that he did. It brought him much joy to be a member of the choir where he played a variety of instruments.

He and his wife, Charlene, enjoyed a wonderful marriage of 62 years. They enjoyed traveling, antiquing, and visiting historic homes. Billy Joe loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Charlene Ingram Branch; twin sons, Donny Branch and Danny Branch, both of Bogalusa, La.; six grandchildren, Megan Branch Vining of Bogalusa, La., Blake (Nicole) Jarrell of Lee Road, La., Shenia (Jordon) Branch of Thomas, La., Mesha Branch of Pine, La., Chase Branch of Bogalusa, La.; and Chasity Branch of Bogalusa, La.; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Charles Ingram; and a sister-in-law; and brother-in-law, Marlene and Richard Ard of Thomasville, Ala.; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents A.C. Branch and Adrine Vince Branch; and two sisters, Bobby Jean Branch Freeman and Betty Sue Branch McNabb.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 10, 2023, at Brown-McGehee Funeral Home in Bogalusa, La., from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. On March 11, 2023, visitation will resume at 9 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m.

Services will be officiated by the Rev. Lynn Martin, the Rev. Caleb Martin, and Brother Jimmy Byrd. Interment will immediately follow at Miley Cemetery on Seven Mile Road.