Alma Eloise (Owens) Branch

Sometimes it’s hard to understand, Why certain things must be,

But there is a reason for it all, Beyond our power to see.

The reason is hidden somewhere, In the pattern God has planned

We must believe and trust Him, And someday we’ll understand.

Today we honor the blessed life of a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and devoted friend. Mrs. Branch was born Alma Eloise Owens on November 20, 1948 to the late Chandler and Magnolia T. Owens. Alma transitioned from earth to receive her heavenly reward on Friday, March 17, 2023 at 7:25 pm at the age of 74 surrounded by family and friends. Alma was affectionately known by all as, Mama, Momma, “Kit”, “Aunt Kitnue”.

At an early age, Alma accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior, and became a member of the Baltimore Baptist Church in Emporia.  For many years, she diligently served in various capacities of the church.  Later on in life she joined Elnora Jarrell Worship Center where she was ordained as a missionary and sang in the gospel choir.

Alma graduated from E. W. Wyatt High School in 1968 and attended Southside Virginia Community College where she earned her nursing assistant certification, allowing her to do what naturally came to her, caring for others. Alma deeply loved her family.  The family loved her.  The family’s get togethers at holidays and other events had family members requesting certain types of their favorite dishes from her. They would boast about her fresh potato salad, sweet potato pies, lemon pound cake, pineapple cake and fried chicken. As the matriarch, Alma was a natural born caregiver for many of her family members and friends.

Alma is rejoicing in Heaven with her parents; eight of her siblings; Allen Owens, Anna Owens, Joseph Wyche, William Stocks, James Owens, Rose Bailey, Otelia Scott, and Chandler Jones; nieces; nephews and other family members who have gone on to glory before her.

“What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry, Ev’rything to God in prayer!” Alma leaves to carry on her legacy and beautiful memories; husband, James H. Branch of Emporia, devoted children; Christopher (Lisa) Woodley of Boardman, OH, Crystal Turner, Barbara Robinson and Latosha Branch all of Emporia; three grandsons, DeAndre’ Woodley, Dezmon Woodley and Miles Coleman; two granddaughters, Chralisa (Ronald) Johnson and Catherine Robinson; six great-grandchildren, three sisters, Carolyn Owens, Rosa (Douglas) Chandler and Doresa Jones, all of Emporia; a brother, Eugene Owens of Emporia, sister-in-laws, Jane Wyche, Lorene Owens, Gloria (Robert) Lucas, Peggy Branch, Mable Owens, and Margie Lee all of Emporia, and Veronica Branch of Washington, DC.; a special great-niece Ashley Owens of Richmond; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends all of whom she dearly loved.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit  Mrs. Branch's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mrs. Alma Eloise Owens Branch.

We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

 "Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11

***TO ENSURE DESIRED FLORAL SELECTIONS AND A TIMELY DELIVERY, 

 PLEASE PLACE ORDERS THE DAY PRIOR TO THE FIRST VIEWING OF DECEASED***

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alma Eloise (Owens) Branch, please visit our floral store.