Ms. Retha Branscumb

Ms. Retha Branscumb, 92, transitioned to her heavenly home at 4:50 pm on Thursday, August 31, 2023 Carle Health Methodist Hospital surrounded by her family.
Retha was born on October 6, 1930 in Hughes, AR to Thomas and Lula (Dullum) Payne.
Retha worked for Caterpillar, Inc. as a machine operator retiring November 1, 1996 after 28 years of service. Retha was the oldest living member of Church of the Living God. She served as an Usher Board and the Benevolent Committee. Retha was the matriarch of her family. She enjoyed spending precious time with her children, grand, great and great-great-grandchildren.
Retha leaves to cherish her most precious memories her son, Nathaniel (Janet) Branscumb of Indianapolis, IN; four daughters, Ida (Robert) Walton of Cordova, TN, Ruth Branscumb of Peoria, IL, Valencia Hunn of Cordova, TN and Undonda (Darryl) Hightower of Peoria, IL; one son-in-law, Felix Lobdell of Peoria, IL; 35 grandchildren, 85 great grandchildren, 25 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends who loved her. She is preceded in death by her parents, three sons, Robert Foster, Sr., Richard Branscumb, Sr. and Will Branscumb, Sr., two daughters, Ommie Hines and Loletha Lobdell; four brothers, Isaac, Johnny, Elmo and James Jackson; eight sisters, Isabella Patrick, Martha Hines, Gertrude Amos-Hines, Rosie Mae Jones, Lula Bea Riggins, Rosie Jackson, Eva Lou Cross and her twin Letha Hines.
Funeral services will be at 10 am on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Church of the Living God with a visitation beginning at 9 am. Bishop Leroy Smith will officiate. Retha will be laid to rest at Lutheran Cemetery.
Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at SimonsMortuary.com.