Carlyle Richard Branson, age 78 of Paris, Illinois, passed away at 5:00 a.m. Sunday, August 18, 2019 at his residence. Mr. Branson was a laborer for Construction Union Local 204 of Terre Haute, Indiana, a member of the Paris First Church of the Nazarene, and was a United States Army veteran.  He was a talented artist and enjoyed drawing, fishing, working in his yard and garden, and spending time with his grandkids.

Born March 3, 1941 in Paris, he was the son of the late Carlyle Golden and Marian (Simons) Branson. He married Judy Henson July 27, 1963 at the Assembly of God Church in Paris.  Survivors include his wife Judy Branson of Paris, three children; Richard W. (Becky) Branson of Martinsville, Illinois, Randall D. (Jennifer) Branson of Marshall, Illinois, and Carol A. (Dustin) Meinecke of Chrisman, Illinois, one sister Betty (Forrest) Kelly of Vermilion, Illinois, one brother John (Donna) Sanders of Vermilion, two half-sisters, Marlene Branson of Paris, Illinois and Brenda Branson of Paris, Illinois, ten grandchildren; Amanda, Garrett, Colin, Presley, Shelby, Tessa, John, Lydia, Drake, and Spencer, and one great grandchild, Adam.  He was preceded in death by three brothers; Tom Branson, Jerry Branson, and Rob Sanders.

Funeral services for Mr. Branson will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 22, 2019 at Stewart and Carroll Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Williamson officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from Noon until service time at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Edgar Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Paris First Church of the Nazarene.  For online condolences, please visit www.stewartandcarrollfuneralhome.com .