James Foster Branton

Mr. James Foster Branton, age 83 of Laurinburg, NC departed this life on Tuesday, September 26, 2023.

He was the son of the late Evans Branton and the late Ettis Small Branton, born at home on September 19, 1940 in Horry County, SC. James had a strong work ethic beginning his career at the filling station in his teenage years working with his dad then later having his own filling station.  He also worked for Toastmaster as a tool and die craftsman and in drafting retiring after 38 years of dedicated employment. James was a proud veteran serving with the United States Army and the United States National Guard from June 1959 – February 1967 stationed at Fort Jackson in South Carolina. On February 14, 1969 James would marry the love of his life, Etta Dolores Nobles Branton with whom he shared a beautiful life with.  He was a member of River of Life Ministries where he loved attending and serving, including as a former deacon and treasurer, then later in life attending McDonald Baptist Church.  He enjoyed being outdoors fishing, running, and his trips to the flea market. James was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend who will be greatly missed.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by sisters, Elizabeth Branton and Mildred Boan; and brother-in-law, Darryl Nobles.

Left to rejoice in his memory is wife of 54 years Dolores Branton of the home; sons, James Foster “Jimmy” Branton, Jr., (Abby) of Rockingham; daughters, Jackie Evans (David) Fairfax, VA, Tammy McRae (William) of Laurinburg, Dawn Simpson (Fred) of Harriman, TN, Lorie Rainwater (Tim) of Hamlet; brother, Eugene Branton (Nellie); sister, Rosa Mae Short; brother-in-law’s; Prentice Boan and Dalair Nobles (Brenda); grandchildren, BJ Cooper (Melissa), Elizabeth Blackburn (Matthew), Tim Evans (Keri), Melissa Richardson (Aaron), Nathan Simpson, Rebecca Scott (Jeremy), Alli Branton, Megan Rainwater, Emma Branton; and great-grandchildren, Cameron, Chris, Drew, Amelia, Reed, and baby Bean; along with many loving nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Funeral services will be held 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 1, 2023 at the McDonald Baptist Church of Rockingham.  Burial with military honors will follow the service in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be held prior to services on Sunday beginning at 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at McDonald Baptist Church.

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