Stephanie Branch

From the very beginning, she was a bright light - full of life, laughter, and love. Goofy, funny, and full of energy, she had a presence that lit up every room she entered. Her laugh - one-of-a-kind and absolutely contagious - could shift the whole atmosphere. You couldn't help but laugh with her. She brought joy everywhere she went. As a child, she thrived being around her siblings, constantly playing, dancing, and dressing up - always the life of the party and deeply rooted in family. She especially cherished trips down to the Carolinas, where she'd spend time with her grandparents, aunts, cousins, and extended family. Those memories of family, laughter, and love stayed with her always.
She had a unique sense of style, always dressed to impress - and could walk miles in heels without missing a beat. Fashion wasn't just something she wore - it was a part of who she was. She was confident, bold, and elegant.
And she had a fire in her spirit. She was a fighter - literally and figuratively - and the stories live on of how people would call her to stand up in their defense, knowing she'd come through. She had a strength about her, one that made others feel safe, seen, and supported.
As a teenager and young adult, she remained family-oriented, building beautiful bonds not only with relatives but with friends who became chosen family. She and her sisters were inseparable, often dressing alike and walking through their neighborhoods arm in arm - "them girls," full of confidence and joy, cheering and laughing like only they could.
At just 20 years old, she became a mother - and never missed a beat. She taught her children strength, love, and loyalty. Through every challenge, she provided, protected, and nurtured with her whole heart. Her love was steady, and her arms were always open. So fiercely herself, so girly, stylish, and graceful - but also bold, wise, and street-smart. That unique blend made her unforgettable. That's why they called her the "Uptown Princess." She carried herself like royalty, but she also knew the streets and how to survive them. She had a toughness wrapped in charm, a softness wrapped in strength. She was truly one of one.
To so many, she wasn't just a mother, sister, or friend - she was the favorite aunt. The one you called when you needed anything: a talk, a laugh, a meal, a few dollars, a roof over your head, or just a good time. She was the go-to, the safe place, the joy. A phenomenal sister and a loyal friend, she showed up for those she loved - always, no matter what.
Her life was rich in love, laughter, and connection. She was bold, she was funny, she was strong - and above all, she was love..
Stephanie leaves to mourn her departure and cherish her memory: sons, Bobby Branch and Cedric Williams; daughter, Zenobia Branch, Goddaughter, Lotoya Parham, four grandchildren, Denesia Johnson, Lux Bunn-Howard, Jaiden Martin, and Brennon Branch; eight siblings, Raymond Branch, Myrna Branch Alston, Linnette Stevenson, Katherine Branch Harris, Cheryl Branch, Jacqueline Whitley, Jeff Whitley, and Jerry Whitley; including sisters and brothers, not by blood but by bond, Denise Smith, Tracy Moore, Tiffany Puckett, Kisha Sivels, Shamia Williams, Tora Mason, Clayton Marquez, Sr., Carl Marquez, and Curtis Thomas
She is reunited with her parents, Verna Mae Sanderlin and Harry Whitley; oldest sister, Teresa Branch; youngest brother, Michael Whitley; and her nephews, Montae Branch, Branden Davis, Raymond Swift, Michael Brown and Curtis Thomas.
Viewing:
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Metropolitan Funeral Service
7246 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA
Celebration of Life:
COME IN PERSON OR WATCH ONLINE
Thursday, July 31, 2025
2:00 PM
Metropolitan Funeral Service
7246 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA