James "Sonny" William Branch

James William “Sonny” Branch, Jr., 64, of Walnut Cove, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. Sonny was born May 19, 1962, the eldest of three sons born to the late James William “J.W.” Branch, Sr., and Joan McQuinn Branch. Sonny retired from TE Connectivity after many years of service as a tool-and-die maker. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing. He also shared his father’s love of aviation and developed a special passion for flying large-scale model airplanes. Whether he was pursuing the next big catch from his boat on the lake, enjoying a round of golf with friends in the local Bunny Hop, or taking to the skies with his model planes, Sonny loved being outdoors. Throughout the years, Sonny generously gave his time to the community by coaching various youth sports teams. Most recently, he enjoyed helping coach the South Stokes Sauras Youth Football Team. He also served the communities he loved as a Freemason with Copeland Lodge and as a volunteer firefighter. Over more than 30 combined years, he served with the Dobson and Walnut Cove Fire Departments. Sonny is survived by his two sons and their families, Jared and Melanie of Goldsboro, NC, and Patrick and Johanna of Walnut Cove, NC; his three granddaughters, Rhiley, Maddilyn, and Piper, whom he loved dearly; the mother of his youngest son, Robin Branch of Walnut Cove, NC; his brother, Dewayne Branch of Parrish, FL; and his niece, Ciani Branch. He also leaves behind his two best friends, Charlie Lasley and Van Snow; his feline companion, Gypsy; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other beloved family members, and friends. In addition to his parents, Sonny was preceded in death by his younger brother, Dean Branch; his maternal grandparents, Ira Clellan McQuinn, Sr., and Ethel Gertrude Rackley McQuinn; and his paternal grandparents, William Dillard Branch and Lillian Stephens Branch. Visitation will be Monday, October 12, 2026, from 12:00-1:00 PM, at Moody-Davis Funeral Service in Dobson. A funeral Service will follow at 1:00 PM, in the Moody-Davis Chapel, with Rev. Rick Hayes officiating. Burial will follow in the Fisher River Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery, with graveside rites by Copeland Masonic Lodge #390. In lieu of flowers donations are asked to be made to:Walnut Cove Fire DeptPO Box 532Walnut Cove NC 27052South Stokes Sauras Youth Football & Cheer1257 Old Mail Route RoadKing NC 27021Masonic Children’s Home of Oxford600 College StOxford NC 27565