Loyal, funny, kind hearted, strong faith
Branch was a loyal man, very protective of his family and close friends and always there for them. He remained steadfast in his religious beliefs throughout his life, always praying before meals, and often reading his Bible. He was funny and liked all types of music including alternative, rock, rap and ska but particularly the group Sublime. He liked to freestyle and rap, but lost interest toward the end as his substance use took over.
Branch’s father died when he was quite young which made him even closer to his mother. He was proud to take care of his mom when she was being treated for cancer spending a great deal of time with her until she passed away.
Nicole, his girlfriend, said they lived a fairly quiet life. Branch worked in lawn care and often came home with flowers for her. He made her feel important, wanted and safe. Most evenings they would cook and settle in to watch television for the evening. Sometime they had people over. They didn’t have hobbies or other interests as they were both drinking or using drugs which Nicole stated: “takes away your dreams and success in life so you don’t get those experiences.” She misses time with him and his smile.
The most difficult part about living with someone with substance use disorder, according to Nicole, is not being able to help someone who is not willing to get help. “You can’t make someone want it.” A few weeks after Branch died, Nicole entered into recovery and is very involved with the sober community, attending meetings often. She said her and Branch “always talked about growing old together, fixing up the house and just being happy.” Unfortunately they never got the chance. Nicole said; It’s important to know that people can get help and don’t have to die. I am grateful to live a sober life, it is the hardest thing I ever did in my life and the best choice. There would have been a lot more for Branch in life, if we could have done it together.”
Branch’s girlfriend, Nicole Meador. provided the information for this narrative.
September 18, 1979-August 12, 2017
Age 38- Lived with addiction 20 years
