Donovan Branham

Donovan Joseph Branham Jr., of Tomball, passed away May 17, 2018.  He was born September 4th, 1942 in Baton Rouge to Donovan and Eunice Branham.  

He is survived by his son, Devereaux Branham; daughters Anna Lee Branham and Jeanne Wendland; grandchildren Rowdy Wendland and Camrynn Puga; sisters Kathy Ware, Barbara Frazier, Debra Bruce Poindexter, and Joyce Nail; Brothers in law Donald Ware, Jimmy Frazier, Doug Poindexter, Steven Nail, Chris Reid, and Phillip Babin; Sisters in law Ann Babin and Tamara Reid; nieces and nephews James Ware, Donna Ware, Leslie Bedgood, Laura Osborne, Sarah McIvor, Hannah Babin, and Rachel Babin; beloved pets Churchill, Mikey and Tigger; beloved granddogs Barkley and Carter; and all of the many lives that he touched in his time here on Earth.

Donovan was a teacher by trade and by soul.  He taught government for thirty years in the Barber's Hill and Beaumont independent school districts.  During his time teaching he had a deep and lasting impact on the students that he taught and friends that he worked with.  In the class room he fostered and motivated his students to be their best selves and strive for greatness.  Outside of the classroom he was an advocate and mentor, serving as Senior Class Sponsor and President of the Beaumont Classroom Teachers Association.  He was always the first to stand up and fight for what was best for his students and fellow educators, and always ready to give of his time after the last bell had rung.  Donovan also taught horsemanship and hunter/jumper riding with his wife Terry at their farm in Beaumont.  His love of horses, riding, and competing were a life long passion that led to many adventures and a deep impact on the equestrian community he was so dedicated to.  Under his tutelage many learned to skillfully and lovingly work with horses.  He was always so proud and quick with a story of the many successes and accomplishments of his students, both equine and human.  

Services will be held on Sunday May 27th, 2018 at 11:00am at the Carmen Nelson Bostick Cemetery (12317 Holderreith Rd, Tomball, TX 77375).  In lieu of flowers we ask that you consider donating to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Donovan's Memory.  Donations can be made at https://gifts.mdanderson.org

We will miss you dearly Don.  Your family, friends, and all those that you have encountered along the way will forever be thankful for knowing you and the profound love and generosity you gave.  You could always be depended on for a great story to entertain, a good laugh to lift one's spirit, a kind word to instill self-confidence, and a deep insight to light the path forward. Go in peace with Terry, galloping into the open and loving arms of eternity.