1952-2026
Harriett Fay Thomas Branch, age 73, was born on November 9, 1952, in Cornerstone, Arkansas, to the late Henry “Pie” Thomas and Ocie Thomas. Her parents were sharecroppers who believed strongly that education was the pathway to a better life, and they instilled in their children the importance of pursuing knowledge and excellence. Fay embraced these values early and excelled academically throughout her school years.
At an early age, Fay gave her life to Christ while attending Macedonia Baptist Church in Cornerstone, Arkansas, under the leadership of Reverend J.J. Jackson. She grew up with a vibrant personality and was known for being spirited and confident, never afraid to challenge the status quo.
Faye attended Altheimer High School, where she was an enthusiastic cheerleader. It was during this time that she met the man who would later become her husband.
In 1970, she enrolled at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff to pursue a degree in education. While completing her studies, she married the love of her life, Cornelious Branch, in 1973. She graduated in 1974 and began her career in education that same year as an English teacher in Wilmar, Arkansas. Faye had a genuine love for children and education, particularly enjoying the opportunity to guide and mentor older students.
In 1977, she and her husband welcomed their first son, Cornelious D. Branch, lovingly known as “Shay.” Their family was further blessed in 1982 with the birth of their second son, Christopher T. Branch.
In 1987, Fay joined the Monticello School District, where she served as the Adult Education Director. In this leadership role, she demonstrated her passion for helping others reach their full potential. She was deeply committed to encouraging individuals to become the best version of themselves and often selflessly invested her time and energy into helping others succeed.
Among the many roles she held in life, her most cherished title was “Mimi,” with “Momma” being a very close second. She loved her sons deeply and treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, always valuing time spent together as a family.
Outside of her professional career, Fay
enjoyed shopping and hosting rummage sales. She proudly considered herself a fashionista and was known for her impeccable sense of style. She also enjoyed spending time chatting and sharing laughter with her sisters, sisters-in-law, and friends, nurturing the close relationships that meant so much to her.
Faye was a devoted member of Holmes Chapel in Monticello, Arkansas, where she faithfully attended services and remained actively involved in church activities. She willingly served through volunteering, hosting events, and fulfilling various responsibilities within the church community.
Faye was preceded in death by her parents, Henry “Pie” Thomas and Ocie Thomas; one brother, Pastor Willie Oscar Thomas; and one sister, Bishop Florida Mae Thomas Morehead.
She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Cornelious Branch; two sons, Cornelious D. Branch (Katie)and Christopher T. Branch (Stacy), both of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; seven grandchildren, Jayden Branch and Aidan Branch of Jacksonville, Arkansas; Dylan Silverman of Conway, Arkansas; and Carli Branch, Kaitlyn Branch, Paige Price, and Blair Price, all of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; two sisters, Lois Jean Williams of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and Rosell Bryant (Ronnie) of White Plains, Maryland; along with a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family members, and friends who will cherish her memory
Obituary submitted by The Family.
