Leemond "Boots" Edward Branch

Leemond E. "Boots" Branch, (95), passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025, in his home.  Boots, a lifelong resident of Weldon, NC, was born to Charlie and Bessie Branch on April 22, 1929, 12 miles south of town near Heathsville. He was the middle child, and only son of five children.

Boots is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Jean Sutton Branch, his only child, Bob (Ann), grandchildren: Dr. Kateland Branch Napier (Jon), Sarah Branch Elliott (Ryland), Lucie Browder Branch, Brian Sutton Branch (Caitlin); great grandchildren Hazel Napier, Willa Napier, Annie Elliott, Caroline Elliott, and Sutton Branch; and his one remaining sister, Megretha Schmitt. Family meant so much to Boots. He was so proud that all four of his grandchildren graduated from college. Boots lived his life through virtues so important to him: honesty, trustworthiness, commitment and integrity.

No one loved Weldon, and especially the Roanoke River more than Boots. He only left Weldon for two years to serve in the US Army in Korea during the conflict there. After an honorable discharge, Boots returned and went to work at the Roanoke Rapids Paper Mill. He liked to say he began his work career as the "sweeper's helper", the lowest job on the paper machine, and within a few years was the youngest foreman. After a successful 30-year career, Boots retired at the early age of 55 to focus on his many other interests.

Boots was an avid hunter and fisherman.  Rockfish was his preferred target, and he caught more than his share. Always an excellent shot, Boots enjoyed quail, rabbit, squirrel and deer hunting. The sound of hounds in pursuit was always a thrill to Boots. Boots taught himself beekeeping and at one time, had 15 hives providing honey to many for what he called his honey money. He maintained a large garden for many years and he enjoyed sharing its yield.

Boots' desire was to live out his life at home. Thanks to the dedicated caregiving provided by his wife Jean, and that provided by the most supportive and dedicated caregiver ever, Desiree Wiltsie, he was able to do that. The family wishes to thank Dr. David Browder, the team at Gentiva Hospice, Dr. A. C. Afiadata and the staff at Rocky Mount Urology for their kind and helpful support.

A funeral celebrating Boots' life will be held at 3:00 PM at Weldon Baptist Church, 609 Washington Avenue, Weldon, NC Sunday, January 19, 2025, with Rev. Billy Howell officiating.  The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 2:00 PM in the fellowship hall. A private graveside service will be held later. The family asks that donations be made to Weldon Baptist Church, in lieu of flowers.

Online condolences may made at www.hockadayfs.com.