Helen M. Branham
Helen M. Anning-Branham, 87, of Riverton, died at 1:50 a.m., on Sunday, April 10, 2011 at St. John’s Hospice. She was born July 7, 1923, in Springfield to William and Eva Mae Tate Bruene. She married John “Herb” Anning on June 24, 1944, and he preceded her in death on May 8, 1976. She then married Robert G. “Zeb” Branham on April 17, 1982, and he preceded her in death on December 19, 2003. Also preceding her in death were her parents, infant brother: Willie, a brother: Carl Bruene and a sister: Daisy Powell.
She is survived by one daughter: Connie (Richard) Cooper of Stonington; two sons: Paul H. (Genie) Anning of Spaulding and Jim (Colleen) Anning of Williamsville; one step-son: Robert (Karen) Branham of Decatur; one step-daughter: Cheryl Harden of Maroa, IL; one sister: Mary Law of Springfield; Several grandchildren and great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Helen was a lifelong member of the Riverton Christian Church, Riverton Tops Club, and Eastern Star Flower City Chapter 152. She served in the Women’s Army Corp. during World War II. Helen enjoyed fishing, crafting, shopping, cooking, and baking, especially pies. She was employed by the Illinois Terminal Railroad as a clerk.
Visitation: 4 – 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at Staab Funeral Home.
Lie-In-State: 10 – 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at Riverton Christian Church.
Funeral Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at Riverton Christian Church with Pastors Grant Ray and Frank Lewis officiating. Burial will be in Camp Butler National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Hospice or Riverton Christian Church.
Sister Anne Lindquist posted on 4/11/11
Dear Connie, My deepest sympathy to you at this sad time. I know how difficult it is for you. Know that you are in my prayers and thoughts. Sister Anne Lindquist Carole and Tom's friend.