Charles Raymond Branch, age 80, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 9, 2020, at his home in Shelbyville, TX. He was born May 26, 1939, in Eastpoint, FL, to John and Nora Branch. Though he was born in Florida, Raymond got to Texas as fast as he could. He resided in Galveston and met the love of his life Martha Golden while attending high school there. Raymond began working at an early age on his father’s shrimp boat and eventually owned his own shrimp boat, “The Miss Barbara”. He started working on harbor tugboats in the late 50’s and advanced his career to the Galveston Ship Pilots in 1976. Raymond raised his family in League City by purchasing his own home at the age of 22, and once the children were grown, he and Martha moved to Bayou Vista. He retired in 1999 after 23 years of being a Pilot and they moved to Shelbyville, TX to enjoy the country life in his retirement. Raymond was a hardworking man who loved his family very much. In his eyes, family was everything and he lived his life as a fine example for his children and grandchildren, who loved their “Pappaw” dearly. Hosting family reunions, Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings were things he truly treasured. Raymond enjoyed the simple pleasures in life like a John Wayne movie, Martha’s home cooking, and a cold Miller Lite. He also enjoyed the yearly gang of C.R.’s friends coming to the hill to hunt a little, play cards a lot, and tell sea stories. He was exceptionally proud of his three beautiful daughters and two sons and all of their accomplishments. Raymond was one of the kindest people you could ever meet, he was a friend to all and gave the best advice. Captain Branch will be cherished in the hearts of the family and many friends left behind.

Raymond is reuniting with his wife Martha Jane Branch; son, Curtis Branch and his parents. Raymond was the last of 8 brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his daughters, Barbara Vaughn, husband Robert, Brenda Sullivan, and Bonnie Branch; son, C.R. Branch, wife Debbie; 11 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

Family, friends, and others whose lives Raymond touched are invited to the visitation that will be held Thursday, March 12, 2020 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. at Crowder Funeral Home, 1645 East Main St., League City, TX. The Funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 13, 2020 at Crowder Funeral Home, League City, TX with Pastor Ryon Vaughn officiating.

Pallbearers will be, Travis Branch, Eric Sullivan, Randy Sullivan, Jack Holland, Corey Ivey, and Ryon Vaughn.