Lawrence Tom Branch

Mr. Lawrence Tom Branch, Sr., 79, of Connelly Springs passed away Wednesday July 11, 2018 at his home following a period of declining health. Lawrence was born October 2, 1938 in Black Mountain to the late Jesse James Branch and Rosie Inman Branch. He retired from Aiken and Black Tire Company after 30 years and currently owned Hildebran Tire. He was a member of the Midnight Riders Car Club and found joy working on his 1955 Bel Air and the other classic cars he owned. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brothers, Bob Branch, John Branch, Sam Branch, Henry Branch, Robert Branch, and Bill Branch; and sister Josephine Branch Hinson. Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Hazel McLaughlin Branch of the home; children, Thomas Branch and wife Leisa of Granite Falls, Ricky Branch of Connelly Springs, Tamie McLean and husband Barry, Kathy Chapman and husband Dave of Connelly Springs, Lawrence Tom Branch, Jr. of Connelly Springs, and Jesse Branch and girlfriend Nikki of Connelly Springs, and one sister, Moraine Price of Marshall, NC, and 15 special grandchildren, and 23 special great grandchildren. A funeral service will be held 1:00PM Sunday July 15, 2018 in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service with the Rev. Ken Jenkins officiating. Interment will follow the service at Mountain View Memorial Park in Black Mountain. The family will receive friend Saturday July 14, 2018 from 5:00PM to 7:00PM at Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese, NC. An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com. Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is serving the Branch family.