1942-2023

Ralph Brannum, 80 of Kempton passed away on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at his home. He was born on December 14, 1942 in Byrdstown, Tennessee. His mother was Dorothy Brannum. Ralph married Janet Burnette in 1963 and Janet preceded him in death on November 13, 2021. Ralph loved cars and loved working on them. It seems like he always had a project car to tinker with.

He worked as a mechanic and body man at Hankins Body Shop, Ross & Doggett and for Chevrolet and even had his own garage. Ralph was multi-talented and experienced many jobs throughout his life, but spent the bulk of his career working on cars. He enjoyed fishing and wildlife in general and loved going to flea markets. Ralph was definitely a family man and the best times in his life were when he was with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ralph is survived by his two daughters, Angie Harris and husband Dave, Tipton and Dalena Van-Matre and husband John, Jerome; one brother, Bruce Brannum and wife Mitzy, Tipton. Grandchildren include Autumn Jacobs (Trent), Michael Billings (Alli), Samantha Billings, Jared Bradley, Eric Bradley, and Katelyn Brannum. Ralph also has three greatgrandchildren, Case Bradley and Donovan Wilkerson and Mickyle Billings. Ralph was preceded in death by one son, Tony Brannum.

Visitation is scheduled on Wednesday, May 17, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Young-Nichols Funeral Home. A private family funeral and burial will take place later at Kempton Cemetery. Memorial donations in honor of Ralph may be made to the Tipton County Humane Society, P.O. Box 237, Tipton, Indiana, 46072.