Clifford Branson

Clifford Branson, 84, of Martinsburg, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2017, at Hospice of the Panhandle Inpatient Facility, Kearneysville.

He was born May 20, 1933, in Shepherdstown, the son of the late Emma Branson.

He as retired from Shepherd University, Ferry Hill Restaurant, Town Run Brewery, Eastside Elementary and the Yellow Brick Bank, where he was famous for his fried chicken. As an employee of the Yellow Brick Bank, he met former First Lady Nancy Reagan on her visit to Shepherdstown.

Clifford lived in Shepherdstown for 71 years before moving to Martinsburg with his godson, Philip Kidrick and family.

He was a faithful member of Asbury United Methodist Church, Shepherdstown. He loved to sing. He was a member of the sanctuary choir, Might Men of God. He served on the usher board, SPPR committee and the hospitality team.

He was a member of the Brothers of Harmony Lodge No. 42 of Shepherdstown.

He is survived by one sister-in-law, Dorothy L. Branson; nephews, Dewitt Jacobs, Donald Lockhart, James Duncan and Neil, John and Jason Branson; nieces, Jacquelyn Branson and Priscilla Young; special friends, Arturo and Wayne Gales, Gloria Guy and life long friend, Dorothy Grantham; and numerous great-nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and friends.

He was famous for his summer picnics that he hosted with his aunt, Nellie Washington, at their home on Ray’s Addition Street, Shepherdstown, where everyone in Shepherdstown came and enjoyed his famous turkey salad.

Clifford was a mall man in stature. He will always be remembered for his big, kind heart, his friendly personality, his warm smile and his gentle ways. He was loved by many.

In addition to his mother and aunts, he was preceded in death by one sister, Nettie Lockhart; and brothers, Lucien, Clinton (his twin) and James Branson.

Service was held at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 13, 2017, at Asbury United Methodist Church, Shepherdstown, WV 25443.

Interment will be at Pleasant View Memory Gardens, Martinsburg.

Arrangements by Rosedale Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Asbury United Methodist Church, Shepherdstown.