Harriett Fay Thomas Branch

Harriett Fay Thomas Branch, age 73, was born on November 9, 1952, in Cornerstone, Arkansas, to the late Henry “Pie” Thomas and Ocie Thomas. Raised by sharecropper parents who deeply valued education, Fay embraced their belief that knowledge opened doors to a better life. She excelled in school and carried that commitment to excellence throughout her days. At an early age she gave her life to Christ at Macedonia Baptist Church in Cornerstone under the leadership of Reverend J.J. Jackson. Known for her spirited and confident nature, she was never afraid to speak her mind or challenge the status quo.

Fay attended Altheimer High School, where she was an enthusiastic cheerleader. She later enrolled at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 1970 to study education. While completing her degree she married the love of her life, Cornelious Branch, in 1973. She graduated in 1974 and began her teaching career that same year as an English teacher in Wilmar, Arkansas. In 1987 she joined the Monticello School District as Adult Education Director, where she poured her energy into helping others reach their full potential. She found deep fulfillment in guiding and mentoring students, especially older ones, and remained passionately committed to education throughout her professional life.

Above all, Fay cherished her role as “Mimi,” with “Momma” a very close second. She loved her sons fiercely and treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren. She enjoyed shopping, hosting rummage sales, and took great pride in her sense of style. She also found joy in lively conversations and laughter with her sisters, sisters-in-law, and friends. A devoted member of Holmes Chapel in Monticello, Arkansas, she served faithfully through volunteering and supporting church activities.

Fay was preceded in death by her parents, Henry “Pie” Thomas and Ocie Thomas, one brother, Pastor Willie Oscar Thomas, and one sister, Bishop Florida Mae Thomas Morehead. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Cornelious Branch; two sons, Cornelious D. Branch (Katie) and Christopher T. Branch (Stacy), both of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; seven grandchildren, Jayden Branch and Aidan Branch of Jacksonville, Arkansas, Dylan Silverman of Conway, Arkansas, and Carli Branch, Kaitlyn Branch, Paige Price, and Blair Price, all of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; two sisters, Lois Jean Williams of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and Rosell Bryant (Ronnie) of White Plains, Maryland; along with a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family members, and friends who will cherish her memory.