Hernani J. Chaves Ernie Branco, 61, of Norton, formerly of Brockton, died Dec. 8, 2013, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Born in Santa Maria, Azores, Portugal, he was the son of Armanda (Chaves) Branco of Riverside, R.I., and the late Antonio P. Branco. Ernie earned a teaching degree from Bridgewater State University. He was first a health teacher at East Middle School and later became an educator and soccer coach at Brockton High School for many years and also served as principal of the Keith Center, retiring 2 years ago. He was the head coach of the championship winning Stonehill College mens soccer team during 1990 and 1991 and was inducted into the schools Hall of Fame. He will always be remembered as a kind and helpful person. Ernie was the beloved husband of Jennifer (Sousa) Branco for 30 years; loving and devoted father of Tiffany, Jordan and Morgan Branco; dear brother of Paul Branco and his wife Lisa of Brockton and Elizabeth B. Condinho and her husband Joaquim Jack of East Providence, R.I. Ernie leaves many loving family, friends and colleagues. All are welcome to calling hours Saturday, Dec. 14, and Sunday, Dec. 15, from 1-7 p.m. in Waitt Funeral Chapel at Waitt Funeral Home, 850 North Main St., Brockton. Funeral Mass Monday, Dec. 16, at 9 a.m. in St. Edith Stein Church, Brockton, and burial at Melrose Cemetery, Brockton. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Ernie Branco Scholarship Fund, Harbor One Bank. Visit www.waittfuneralhome.com or call 508-583-7272.
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He showed me how to Better Referee and Person. His Cuda that he let me take to the Prom. He made me a better person
Brian Hunt
Student
December 4, 2020
We miss you, Ernie- you were a special person
Joe Yeskewicz
Teacher
December 4, 2020
It has been a number of years now since Ernie's passing, but he is still in our hearts and the subject of many conversations. He is missed for his humor, faithfulness, smile, and love. Ernie was a great teacher at our martial arts studio in Brockton for many years, he taught our daughter how to drive, and use to come and spend weekends with his wife, Jennifer at our ski chalet in N.H. we have so many great memories of those weekends. I am sure the pain of losing him will never fade for his family, but neither will the fond memories that he left for all his family and friends. He was a blessing to all who knew him. Debbie Mangone
Debbie Mangone
Friend
December 4, 2019
Mr. B.
Thanks for all of the times at SJH when you showed me that not ALL of the teachers disliked their jobs, (and us kids). To my first favorite teacher, see you soon-
-DCHJr.
Daniel Harkins Jr.
December 30, 2013
you will forever be missed Mr. Branco.. I thank you for your guidance and all the advice during my high school career. Red House!!
-SA
December 18, 2013
So sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed. Spent many a night with Ernie at the Brockton USSD Dojo.
Jim Milbery
December 16, 2013
JEN,I JUST FOUND OUT FROM MARY BROWN LAST NIGHT ABOUT ERNIE. I KNOW WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH, MY DAD DIED FROM A HEART ATTACK DEC. 18, 50 YEARS AGO. MAY GOD PUT HIM IN A GOOD PLACE, HE WAS A REAL GOOD SPORT, ALWAYS JOVIAL. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. LOVE~~MR. ED.
EDMUND M. PERRY
December 15, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Brenda, Sara and Ben Pignone
December 15, 2013
I am far away in Seattle and wish I could be there tonight to hug Jen and the kids (all grown up now)... I was 19 years old when Ernie invited me to Stonehill. More than recruiting players, Ernie welcomed us in as Family first, and followed our respective development as student- athletes with genuine concern, sometimes tough love to help us grow. It wasn't only about soccer for Ernie though, he was equally concerned about our academic progress and responsibility. When I truly needed support during the loss of my sister only a year after arriving, he was there as a constant, rock solid source of support- I will never forget him driving down all the way from North Easton, Massachusetts with all my teammates to visit my family and I in CT when Debbie passed away. Jen was there as well, standing by his side and supporting my family. This is what true leaders do... more than building a team, they bring together a family that supports one another on and off the field, in the good and bad. All our love and prayers are with Jen, the kids, and the rest of his family- Love and Light for his beautiful Soul, Stewart, Claudia, and Dagoberto 12/9/13
Stewart Diaz
December 15, 2013
Mrs. Branco and family,
Sincere condolences to you all. May the sweet memories and love of family and friends help you through this unimaginable loss. We will always remember Ernie as a dedicated coach who truly cared about the kids.Our children will always remember soccer camp with Ernie. They love soccer so much and we have attended many Revolution games. We always looked for Ernie on the sidelines, and it made the kids proud that they knew him! He will be sorely missed.
Nicole and Stephen Caffelle
December 14, 2013
Jen and family, We were so sorry to learn of Ernie's untimely death. Such a loss to your family and the community.We wish you peace and wonderful memories. Mary and David Paine
December 14, 2013
What can I say....I have thought so much about Ernie over these last few days. I am so deeply saddened with his loss, but, I can't help but smile when I think of Ernie because he always had something funny or caring to say to me.
I worked with him throughout his years at BHS
Diane Holcomb. Retired PE Teacher
Diane Holcomb
December 14, 2013
I was lucky enough to have Mr. Branco at South Junior High and then as a freshman at BHS he was also my homeroom teacher. There wasn't a single teacher in my lifetime that ever made as much of an impact on my life, as both a student and later the man I've become, than Mr. Branco. May you rest in peace and may your family be comforted by the fact that you were loved by so many. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Branco family.
Bobby Ryan
December 14, 2013
To all Hernani's Family, I am deeply sorry
to hear about the death of my dear friend
Hernani.Please except my sincere condolences,Ernie will be remembered as a friend for a long Time.GOD BLESS
Nelson Amaral
December 14, 2013
We are very saddened to hear of Hernani's passing. Our deepest condolences to all family member.
Quintino's from Lisbon-Portugal/Boston
Joao Quintino
December 14, 2013
Ernie, you called it the beautiful game, you should understand that the game was a beautiful reflection of you, fun,exciting, character building and teaching lessons in life. I know you through a dear friend and to see her grief defines what a true loss you are to many. Sincere sympathies to your lovely wife Jenn and children. May the celebration of you life drown out the loss and grief that all are experiencing. God Bless, save a seat for me on the other side. It was great to see you this summer, You were and are joyful soul . Cheers, Dia Duit.
Sue Kelly
December 13, 2013
Jordan & Family, It is very sad to hear about your Dad's passing. I recall first meeting Ernie at a SNHU match a few years back and said to myself wow that is one passionate father. He was great to talk to about soccer and I am sure he touched the lives of so many players throughout his lifetime. He was a great man. Please know that thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Hang in there Jordan!
Jeff Coelho
December 13, 2013
Coach Branco will be sadly missed by many...A good man, a good friend and coach. He made the lives of so many youths better through many different avenues. Our deepest sympathy to the Branco family..
The Explosion FC Soccer family
December 13, 2013
I want to express my deepest sympathies to the entire Branco family. I had the pleasure of working with Ernie when he was Principal of the Champion, but have also known him for years as the beloved brother of my dear friend and long time co-worker Paul Branco. My heart breaks for this terrible loss to the entire Branco family; Ernie your smile and upbeat personality will be missed. Rest in Peace. To Paul and the entire Branco family you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Robin Cassford
December 13, 2013
Gary Ritchie Sr.
December 13, 2013
I was so fortunate to know Ernie as a teacher and mentor at South Jr. High, then again as a friendly face at BHS over 6 years. He was always a source of warmth and guidance and very much a father figure. I truly felt cared for and I know all his students felt the same way. This is truly heartbreaking, I was just thinking about him before I heard the news, hoping I would be able to say hello to him soon. His liveliness and kindness will never be forgotten. He is a starburst for all who knew him, and his light will shine down on us forever.
Melanie Peterson
December 13, 2013
Ernie was my cousin, I grew up woth him in the Azores and become separated here in the States. From Central California my deepest sympathy's go to all his family.
Luis Leonel De Medeiros
December 12, 2013
To Paul and the Branco Family...
Ernie was my coach, teammate and friend for many years and I will always remember him for being the most enthusiastic person I have ever known. He was always smiling and made others around him smile. Truly gone too soon. So sorry for your loss.
Fred (BHS'76) and Julie (BHS'79) Nesseralla
Fred Nesseralla
December 12, 2013
Descansa em paz Hernani!
As nossas sinceras condolências a toda a família. Que Deus vos conforte nestas horas tão dolorosas.
Um abraço,
Mena Resendes e família
December 12, 2013
We could cry until our eyes run dry.
We will never forget you Ernie.
You brought HAPPYNESS to all the people !
Rest in Peace our cousin and FRIEND.
Coelho and Pizioli families
Montreal,Canada
jack Pizioli
December 12, 2013
Sad to hear about his passing! Our sincere condolences to the family! Paula and Nuno Puim and Serafim de Medeiros
Paula Puim
December 12, 2013
I extend my condolences to all of Ernie's family. I first met Ernie when I was freshman soccer coach at Brockton high in the early 70's and he stopped by to watch Paul play for the varsity team. His expertise and love for soccer was infectious. He was the BEST soccer ref I ever saw and
it was always a pleasure when he did one of our games because we knew he would call things RIGHT. It was also gratifying to see him succeed as a coach, teacher, and administrator. Hopefully the great memories you have of him will help to sustain you through this difficult time.
Brian McCormick
December 12, 2013
Our hearts go out to you at this time, we will keep you all in our prayers.
The Pacheco's
December 12, 2013
Jen and Family, Paul and Family Elizabeth and Family, and Armanda,
Our family wishes to express to you all our deepest sympathy. May God be with you all during this most difficult time. Ernie has a very special place in heaven as he was a very special man to so many. He is and always will be at rest and in peace. Love and prayers to all of you,
Charlie and Carol Salisbury, Kerri and Stacy
December 12, 2013
We are so so saddened to hear of the loss of Ernie. He was an incredible person who always treated justin so well on and off the soccer field. We are sending prayers to all of you. Our hearts are so broken over this loss. Love The Labontes
Karen Labonte
December 12, 2013
Jen ...We met Ernie around 1975-76 when he first became a teacher. I saw, over years, what an honorable, loving husband and father he became. May he rest in peace, and you find comfort, knowing how many lives he touched and how he will be missed.
Ginny Gillis-Dutra
December 12, 2013
Senhor Branco, Que Deus te receba de bracos aberto em Seu reino. Que a Paz e a bondade do Senhor esteje com a sua espesa, e filhos. Tiffany, estamos rezando por voce e por sua familia. Descanca em paz.
Clari Scota
December 12, 2013
Dear Tiffany, we are all sorry for the lost of your father. Our prayer and thoughts are with you in these difficult moments. Clari, and Weinberg 4C staff.
Rest in Peace Mr Branco.
December 12, 2013
Branco Family,
Please accept our sincere condolences. Our hearts break for you. Ernie was a dear person. It's not his many titles that he will be remembered for, but for the friendship, compassion and love that he bestowed on those around him. We will miss the unaccountable trips to our house to pick up Jordan and Morgan. May God help comfort your hearts during these difficult days and help you find healing in the loving memories you shared with him. God bless.
Maria, Peter, Madjer and Kyle Veiga
Maria Veiga
December 12, 2013
Sentidos Pesames a toda a familia Branco.
Cumprimentos
Antonio Branco Lopes Goncalves
Santa Maria,Acores,portugal
Antonio Goncalves
December 12, 2013
Deidre, Abe, Alyssa and Kaela Benitez
December 12, 2013
Ernie, you were the best. We never did get to race--your Cuda against my Camaro. I know that you would have won because you were a natural winner. I will always treasure the time we had together at South Jr. High. I pray that your wife and children will find solace in their memories. You are gone and my heart aches, but you will not be forgotten. Go with God, Ernie, my friend. Wayne Lucier Duxbury,Ma
December 12, 2013
To Paul and Family,
Sorry for your loss.
December 12, 2013
Hernani was a son to me always there when i needed him My wife and I will miss him.
Always in our heart,We love him.He always called us mama,papa.He worked for me at Sons Driving School,when he young.papa
Ernest,Linda Anthony
December 12, 2013
rest in peace
Elizabeth betters
December 11, 2013
Ernie was one of a kind in many ways. Hearing his distinctive voice will be missed. "To the feet" was one of his famous lines..
December 11, 2013
We are so sorry for your lost and we will be praying for you and your family
- Janey Family
Irismae Janey
December 11, 2013
Ernie Branco is one of the finest men I have ever met! He has been part of my family's life for thirty years.such a kind man with a heart of gold.he will truly be loved and missed by all who knew him.rest in peace our dear friend,we love you and will keep you in our hearts forever!God bless his family in this tradegic time.may god help ease your pain
Dawn Sproules
December 11, 2013
you will missed so much I have been delivering your mail for many years and you was one of my favorite customers you were there to comfort and keep me strong during the passing of my husband when he passed two days before Christmas always keep me smiling when I saw you you were a great person and you have a great family who will miss you so I cry every time I stop at your mailbox may God be with you and your family may you rest in peace ernie thanks for all you have done to keep me strong never to be forgotten God bless you
Elizabeth betters
December 11, 2013
we are sorry for his death a good friend
benjamin correia
December 11, 2013
My Love and prayers to all of you..
Eda~
December 11, 2013
I had Mr. Branco has assistant headmaster in the azure building at BHS! You will be severely miss and a great guy! RIP Mr. Branco! My condolence to his family and friends. Boxer for life!
Nicole Christopher
December 11, 2013
You are one the reasons I went into Soccer refereeing. You told me once it is about the game and not me. It will be hard to concentrate on the games and not think of you. I will always remember you for your 1970 orange CUDA that you let me take to the prom. Paul your bother I wish you the best my friend. Instead of a yellow card or red card - you get a gold card RIGHT TO HAVEN. You will be missed
Brian Hunt
December 11, 2013
I want to send out my thoughts an prayers too him and his family.
December 11, 2013
Ernie was like an uncle to me growing up, I only have fond memories, may he rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Linda vanNederpelt
December 11, 2013
Mrs.Branco will be missed for his cared and love.
CLASS 97
Ana Resende-Ambroise
December 11, 2013
Mrs.Branco will be missed.he was a dedicated and cared teacher of all BHS students. Ana Resende-Ambroise Class 97
December 11, 2013
I had Mr. Branco for homeroom at Weymouth South Junior High School in 1985-1986. He was a real down to Earth type of guy who treated us young growing kids as young adults and we all respected him for that. He had a great sense of humor and brought smiles wherever he went. My deepest condolences to the Branco family.
Scott Inman
December 11, 2013
To The Branco Family,
My deepest condolences go out to your entire family. My father was just telling me some stories last week of when the 2 of them were teenagers. My thoughts and prayers are with you all of you during this difficult time. May he rest in Peace!
Susan (Chaves) Dos Reis
Susan Dos Reis
December 11, 2013
Ernie
I loved working with you at the stadium . I Willis's you my friend . Always loved your smile love you . Thoughts and prayers go out to your family .
Debbie Franey
Debbie Franey
December 11, 2013
I was blessed to have worked with Ernie for so many years at BHS. Let's all remember his warm smile, loving heart, and his great sense of humor.
Ernie, with you I'm sure God is well pleased. Love and Peace to your family.
John Kelleher
December 11, 2013
My daughter had Ernie as a coach at BHS. What a great guy. You will be sadly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children.
Judy O'Connor
December 11, 2013
To the family of Ernie Branco, my sincere sympathy. I knew Ernie Years ago, I worked at the corner store on West Chestnut Street and he would come in to check that all was okay, even gave me his phone number just in case. Well one night I needed to call Ernie, came in talked to the 5 kids that were stealing and said "Hey she's got to close up." Off they went and when all was done, Ernie came back and walked me home. I loved this guy for what he did to help so many and he was wonderful with kids, always trying to direct them down the right path, a special man. My daughter was also fortunate to have him as her health teacher at South Jr. High. He will be missed and Godspeed Ernie, you were a very special and loving man. My sympathy once again.
Cindy DeLong
December 11, 2013
Our deepest sympathy to the Branco family. Ernie was a wonderful man who really cared for the students and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Harry Allen
December 11, 2013
Although I never had the pleasure of working directly with Ernie I have heard many pleasant and funny stories about him. I only knew him for a short period of time. May he rest in peace and God watch over his family.
My Sincere Condolences with all of the Branco Family
Cheryl
December 11, 2013
To Jennifer, Tiffany, Jordan, and Morgan, We mourn with the entire Branco family and friends the sudden loss of Ernie. He loved life and he loved his family with great devotion. He was so proud of all of you. To his mother Armanda, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time, and we want you all to know that we will remember our friend Ernie laughing and smiling forever. With love and sympathy, Ed and Marilyn Coakley and family
Ed and Marilyn Coakley
December 11, 2013
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Mt. Branco. He was always there for each and every student whenever they needed him, no matter how much trouble they were in. My condolences to your entire family.
DJ, BHS Class of "01"
December 11, 2013
I had the honor to work with Ernie for many many years at Brockton High School. He was kind, generous and fair -- the best kind of teacher and administrator. God bless Ernie, may light perpetual shine upon him.
Richard Tingblad, BHS retired
December 11, 2013
Dear Jen & family,
I am so sorry to hear of Ernie's passing he was a wonderful person and a great friend, he will be missed by all of us. He will be in my prayers.
John Tosca
December 11, 2013
Sincere condolences to Mrs. Branco and family. Ernie's easy smile and positve attitude I will always remember. Richard Zoino
Richard Zoino
December 11, 2013
Mr. Branco taught at the Weymouth South Junior High School during the early 80's. Although I never had him as a teacher, I did have many engaging conversations with him. He was a caring educator and will and should be missed by humanity.
December 11, 2013
We are so deeply sorry for your loss- our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow.
Robin & Jay Presentato
December 11, 2013
Jen,
Deepest sympathy for you and your family.
Siobhan Ahearn
December 11, 2013
May the love & prayers of Family & Friends sustain you during this difficult time. I will always cherish the memories of Ernie from Bridgewater State Soccer, Refereeing, Coaching, & through to his time with the N.E. Revolution. A kind and passionate man who will be greatly missed by many. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jim Barrington
December 11, 2013
Ernie was a great guy I always admired and respected his kindness for others. My deepest sympathies to his family. He will be missed by many. Rest in peace Ernie
Margie Tufts
December 11, 2013
Sadly missed
Susan Riley
December 11, 2013
Ernie will be missed for his humor and his smile.
Always the life of the party.
Larry & Debbie Mangone
December 10, 2013
Ernie was a dedicated person who cared about the people under his professional tutelage. His enthusiasm was overwhelming.
JY, former college instructor
December 10, 2013
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