Anthony Ross Branham

Anthony Ross Branham, 69, born on June 4, 1956, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025 of liver disease. Tony went into the arms of his Savior, outside in a serene, “green” garden space at Kobacker House in Columbus, Ohio with his family at his side.

Tony is preceded in death by his parents, Polly and Roosevelt Branham. He leaves behind his brother, Michael Branham (Ellyn), his brother, Jeffrey Branham (Julie), his sister, Kimberly Knox (Mike, who Tony recently confessed is his “favorite brother-in-law”) and his many nieces and nephews.

Tony left this temporary earth after a life well-lived and well-loved; a true free spirit whose presence left a lasting impression wherever he wandered. A gifted singer and musician, Tony’s love for bluegrass music ran deep. He played guitar, mandolin, and banjo with ease and joy, spending much of his early years making music alongside his dad and his brothers.

Tony had a deep admiration for musical greats like Ralph Stanley, Tony Rice, Larry Sparks, and David Grisman—whose distinctive style he affectionately called “Dog Music.” For him, music wasn’t just a pastime, it was calling, a connection to his roots, and a source of joy and meaning. His latest favorite tune was an old Larry Sparks song called “Green Pastures in the Sky” listen to it and think of him.

He graduated from Meigs County High School with honors, but chose a life guided more by heart than convention. Tony worked steadily and reliably throughout his life as a heavy equipment operator and truck driver. This will be his first summer off, and he’ll be spending it in Heaven, a place even more beautiful than the paradise he loved here on Earth.

Tony lived simply and intentionally, never wanting material things. He found richness in the beauty of nature, the quiet of a forest, the crackle of a good fire, and the gentle flow of a river. His brother Michael affectionately said, “He was the only cowboy I have ever known”. For the past 13 winters, he found work, peace and belonging in a little slice of paradise that he fondly called, “Wainright Ranch,” on the Suwannee River in Florida. This is a place where the cypress trees, cool waters and beautiful farm animals mirror his calm and free-spirited soul.

Tony was the kind of neighbor you could count on and a friend to everyone he met—many of whom his family may never know. He was generous in quiet, heartfelt ways, including recently sending help to flood victims in his family’s hometown in Kentucky. He made friends across the country, living a life rich in connection, music, and faith.

An avid reader, a lover of The Andy Griffith Show and a good Western, Tony also had a deep love for the Lord. He knew the Bible well and often offered insight and encouragement to those around him. Most recently, he told his baby brother to “be courageous”—a parting piece of wisdom that captures his spirit and faith in the Lord. This will be a statement we will not forget.

Tony’s legacy was not measured in wealth or recognition, but in kindness, music, friendship, and faith. He will be missed dearly by his family, his many friends across the country, and all who were blessed to know him.

As we say goodbye, imagine Tony in green pastures, his banjo in hand, a song in his heart, and the peace of eternity surrounding him—singing, and still free. He is now reunited with many who have gone on before him, including his beloved Mom, Dad and his beloved Aunt Pearl and Forest who loved him so.

In his honor, take a moment to enjoy a sunrise, pick up a good book (non-fiction preferred), hum, pick a bluegrass tune, or lend a hand to someone in need. That’s the way Tony lived—and the way he’d want to be remembered.

The family will be holding a private celebration of life at a time to be determined at Williams Farm, Pataskala, Ohio.

Should you feel led, a donation in his honor can be made to the Kobacker House, Columbus, Ohio.