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John Branham Obituary
March 3, 1947 - June 13, 2025
After bravely battling a lengthy illness, John Ruffin Branham, Jr. passed away at home with his wife, Judy, by his side on June 13, 2025. Ruffin was born in Raleigh, NC on March 3, 1947. He graduated from Needham Broughton High School in Raleigh in 1965. He later graduated from Wake Forest University in 1969 with a BA in History where he was also a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, a member of the baseball team for four years, and played freshman basketball.
Ruffin leaves behind beloved family, Judy's brother, Woodson Baker (Jane); nieces, Mary Ashley and Jack LaVoy, Jenny Hale (Sam), Betsy Carlton (Chase); and eight great-nieces and nephews.
Ruffin began a 45-year career in the insurance industry in 1969 ultimately serving in senior executive positions in underwriting, brokerage and consulting with several firms including Aetna Casualty & Surety, Johnson & Higgins, Palmer & Cay and Markel Corporation.
He had a long-term interest in and commitment to education. Over time, he served on the boards of The Steward School, Royce Learning Center (Savannah), Memorial Health University Health Foundation (Savannah) and The Spencer Educational Foundation (New York). He was a long-time member of the Wake Forest University Alumni Council and for two years, he was President of The Wake Forest Alumni Association. Ruffin was a passionate Demon Deacon supporter and member of the Deacon Club. He had a lifelong love-hate relationship with golf and was a member of Hermitage Country Club. Ruffin was also a member of Second Baptist Church since 1980.
A Celebration of Life will take place at Second Baptist Church, 9614 River Road, Richmond, VA, 23229, on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 2 p.m. A church reception will follow. Burial will be private at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Second Baptist Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Branham
Bill Weirich
July 2, 2025
I didn´t get to see Ruffin much after we moved to FL full-time in 2020, but always enjoyed his company at Hermitage in the old Smokehouse Golf Group (and in the Tap Room) as well as at Markel where we both worked. He was easy going, always a gentleman and will be missed by all who knew him. RIP.
Cindy Robinett
July 2, 2025
Such a great man and great boss in so many ways. Admired and respected by all. I learned so much from Ruffin and he will be dearly missed. Prayers of comfort and peace for Judy and the entire family.
Debbie Rich
July 2, 2025
One of the finest men I've ever had the honor to work with. A great mentor and friend.
John Cay
June 30, 2025
It was a great privilege to have had Ruffin as a friend and business associate. He was highly respected and he certainly made this world a better place.
Mark Lynch
June 30, 2025
So sorry to hear this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Judy. Ruffin and I shared many a "search" for the perfect golf shot over the years at Hermitage! The world was a better place with him in it. Gods speed Ruffin,we´ll see you again!
The Wilma Baker Walls Family
June 30, 2025
Ruffin became a part of our family when he met and married our cousin, Judy. Our early memories of Judy and Ruffin are filled with times of laughter and joy. Our thoughts are with those closest to him. He will be missed and remembered always.
Shirley Parker
June 29, 2025
Ruffin was a fine man who deeply cared for others. He visited my husband often. Ruffin was my faithful Ruzzle partner for the last several years. Most of the time beating me. My sincere condolences to Judy and their loving family.
Mike Crowley
June 29, 2025
One of my greatest friends and business partner for 30 years. A true professional. I will miss him greatly. Mike Crowley
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