Joan Ballard Branham

Joan Ballard Branham, 86, of Florence, SC passed away Monday, February 12, 2024. She was born in Fredericksburg, VA, the daughter of the late Percy Ballard and Myrtle Snellings Ballard. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 60 years, Grady Richard Branham; and a brother, Donald Busch Ballard. Surviving are her daughters, Dr. Cheryl Ann Branham, of North Myrtle Beach, and Deryl Branham Snowden (Dr. Douglas), of Timmonsville, SC; four grandchildren, Jennifer Elizabeth Snowden (Lee), John Douglas Snowden Jr. (Drew), Grady Richard Snowden (Elaine), and Dr. Patricia Ann Snowden; four great-grandchildren, Sophia Ashley Snowden, James Ascher Snowden, Grady Thomas Snowden, and Meabh Row Snowden; sisters-in-law, Carol Krier (John) and Patti Ballard; and niece, Lana Branham Todd (Bob). Joan graduated from James Monroe High School in 1956. After graduation, she set off to begin her adult working life in Richmond, where she met Grady. The couple were married at Springvale Baptist Church in Lugoff, SC in 1957. When the family moved to Florence, Joan continued her career in various secretarial and administrative roles, particularly serving local law firms. She eventually began working independently as a freelance court reporter. Throughout her long and successful career, she travelled throughout the region for her work, eventually retiring to care for her husband until his passing in 2017. They were blessed in marriage for over 60 years. Mrs. Branham was a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church and her Sunday school class. Throughout her life she loved preparing food for church friends and hosting church functions. She loved flowers, especially roses, orchids, and tropical plants. She enjoyed fishing and boating. She adored her family; her favorite thing was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Friday, February 16, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Calvary Baptist Church with the funeral service to follow at noon in the sanctuary. Burial will be at Lugoff First Baptist Church Cemetery at 2:30 PM, directed by Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home. The family would like to express their gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at McLeod Health Florence. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 915 Cherokee Rd, Florence, SC 29501, or the Manna House www.flomannahouse.com. Please sign the Guest Book for the family at www.stoudenmiredowling.com.