Daniel “Danny” Branton, age 54, of the Georges Fork community, went Home to be with the Lord unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025.
He was born in Mitchell County to the late Paul and Janice Honeycutt Branton. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Elijah Branton; both his maternal and paternal grandparents; and his father-in-law Jackie Mathis.
Danny spent many years working as a plumber and in the propane gas industry, where he was known for his dedication to the job and strong work ethic. He was a faithful deacon of Remnant Freewill Baptist Church for over 20 years and walked closely with the Lord. His Christian faith showed daily through his kindness and service to others in need. He stood firm on the belief that in order to make it Home a person had to endure till the end and that is what he did. Danny was also a member of Burnsville Masonic Lodge Chapter 717.
An avid outdoorsman, Danny found peace and joy in God’s creation. He especially loved to hunt; most of all deer hunting with his kids and close friends. He enjoyed shooting archery as a sport. The woods were his place of solitude, where he often reflected on the beauty and blessings of life. He was a loyal friend to all who crossed his path and a man of his word. He held a steady presence in the lives of those closest to him. Above all, Danny was a family man, a devoted husband, a loving father and the very best “Papaw” and “Pop Pop” to his cherished grandchildren.
Danny leaves behind his loving wife of 34 years, Rita “Gail” Branton of the home; two sons: Paul Branton and his wife Annie of Spruce Pine, NC and Hayden Branton and his wife Peyton of Mars Hill, NC; a daughter, Nicaela Austin and her husband Brandon of Burnsville, NC; grandchildren: Layton and Huntlee Branton and Isaac Austin; one brother, Marty Branton and his wife Dorene of Johnson City, TN; a sister Monica Branton of Colombia, SC; special friends: Mike and Phyllis Ennis NC; Many extended family members, close friends and church family also survive.
Although he left this world far too early, he leaves behind an example for us all to follow. He would remind you, “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:18 KJV
Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Saturday November 1st, 2025 at Yancey Funeral Services. Funeral services will follow at 7 p.m. in the chapel. A private family burial will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025.
To send online condolences, please visit: www.yanceyfuneralservice.com
