Rick Branch Obituary
Rick Branch, age 71 of College Grove, TN passed away January 25, 2026 with his family by his side. He was born on March 20, 1954 in LaGrange, GA to the late Dan and Marie Branch.
He is survived by his wife, Jana Branch; daughter, Jodi (Matt) Pool; grandchildren, Rowan and Reese Pool; sister, Mickie (Rick) Samper; cherished family friends, Krystle and Ross Dawkins; multiple nieces and nephews and other loving family members. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his brother, Joey Branch.
He began his career spending a decade as a professional wrestler, a chapter of his life marked by passion, grit, and larger-than-life stories. He married the love of his life, Jana, and went on to build a successful career of more than 30 years in the automotive and camper industry, working in sales and finance. After retiring last year, he and Jana moved to Tennessee to be close to family, cherishing time with Matt, Jodi, Rowan, and Reese. His plan for retirement was to drive students for LifeWise Academy in Williamson County, Tennessee, a mission that reflected his heart for service. LifeWise Academy provides Bible education to public school students during school hours, and Rick cared deeply about making sure everyone knew the name of Jesus.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. (Central Time) at Word Alive International Outreach, located at 122 Allendale Road, Oxford, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to LifeWise Academy, Williamson County, Tennessee, in honor of Rick’s faith and his heart for sharing Jesus.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3009 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064
People and places connected with Rick
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Rick Branch
Make a Donation
in Rick Branch's name
How to support Rick's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Rick Branch's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
