Lonnie Charles Branton

Lonnie Charles Branton, 89, passed away peacefully Saturday morning, January 24, 2026. He promised all who crossed his path during his waking moments of 2026 that he would stay for the first snow fall of the year, and he did, passing quietly in the morning as the snow fell without a sound. Lonnie was born September 8,1936 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was the youngest son of Rachel Wood and Lonnie Wilson Branton, and he was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Raymond and Edgar; and his sisters Elizabeth, Marjorie, and Mary.

On November 22, 1956, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Louise (Waggoner) Branton, whom he credited for pointing him to Jesus. They remained married for 69 years, raised five children, and built a business together. Lonnie is survived by his wife Carolyn; his three sons: Philip, Ross (Julie), Nick (Beth);and two daughters: Keeley Kirksey (Greg) and Catherine Rhodes. As a grandfather, he was surrounded by his angels in life, his grandchildren: Jared Landers (Jessica), Kyle Landers (LeAnne), Angie Neufer (Jordan), Tiffany Stroman (Adam), Thomas Rhodes, Connor Branton, Caitlyn Branton, and Carolyn Rhodes. Then, he received a second chapter of this deep love when he was surrounded by his great grandchildren: Madden, Knox, Remi, Lane, Trace, and Abby Grace. They were a dream Epilogue to Lonnie’s life and never ceased to make him smile.

Throughout his life Lonnie enjoyed spending his free time golfing with friends, traveling with Carolyn, listening to the Highwaymen and Alan Jackson, and watching the St. Louis Cardinals and Arkansas Razorbacks play ball. Lonnie possessed a sharp wit and a sudden, contagious laugh. He loved old movies, creating elaborate grocery lists, and whipping up a pie or two when asked. After 89 years of life and love, Lonnie lived and left a legacy of wonderfully, brave and unique human beings behind. For that we are grateful and confident his faith in Christ secured his place in heaven where he lives on forever.

Plans are pending for a memorial service and family celebration of Lonnie’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Church at Rock Creek Food Bank.

Arrangements entrusted to Smith Family Funeral Homes. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.