Obituary of O.C. Branch

Obituary Branch, Overby Croswell "OC", 92 years old, Ocala - Overby Croswell Branch died at home on May 30, 2009. Mr. Branch was born in Crescent City, FL on the morning of October 23, 1916. He lived in Ocala since 1921 (with the exception of three years spent working for DuPont Chemical Company out of state). He graduated Ocala High School in 1934, and received his degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Florida. After marrying "Scottie" in 1944, they made their home in Ocala. Mr. Branch will always be remembered for his lifelong commitment to the community. His list of services and accomplishments is long: •President/Chairman of the Board/Owner - Seminole Stores •President of the Ocala Marion County Chamber of Commerce, 1963-1964 •President of Florida Feed and Fertilizer Association, 1979-1980 •Chairman of the Board of Florida Agricultural Research Institute, 1981-1983. •President of the Kiwanis Club of Ocala •Leader in the Southeastern Youth Fair •Leader in the United Way •Member of the SunTrust Bank Board of Directors •Florida Small Businessman of the Year, 1983 •National Small Businessman of the Year, First Runner-up, 1983 •Member of the First United Methodist Church, 1922 to present (with the exception of the three years spent working for DuPont Chemical Company out of state). •March of Dimes' "In Honor of Excellence" recipient, 2000 He is predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Mary Katherine Scott Branch "Scottie" who passed away January 9, 2009. He is survived by his son Greg C. Branch (Diane), of Ocala; granddaughter Tracy (MacKay) Drake of Atlanta, two great grandchildren Katherine Scott Drake and MacKay Drake; granddaughter Jennifer Branch of Tampa; granddaughter Christina Branch of Ocala; grandson Crosby Branch of Ocala. Services for Mr. Branch will be held at First United Methodist Church of Ocala at 4:00 p.m. on June 4, 2009 with Rev. Sue Haupert-Johnson officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to United Way of Marion County. Arrangements are under the care of Heirs- Baxley Funeral Services, 910 SE Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, Florida.