Obituary: Crystal Diane Branch

Crystal Diane Branch, a beloved member of the Southern Boone County community, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Boone Hospital Center.

Crystal was born in Columbia on August 26, 1963, the daughter of Ronald White and Marilyn (Hamilton) White. On August 10, 1985, in Ashland, Missouri she married Jeffrey Branch, and he survives of the home.

Graduating from Southern Boone County High School and being a part of the 1981 State Champion Softball Team were among Crystal’s proudest accomplishments. Her enthusiasm for sports and education inspired many students throughout her career.

Crystal led a life filled with dedication and joy. Crystal’s passion for education shone through her 24-year career as a P.E. teacher at Southern Boone Primary School. She not only taught but also served as a coach for various sports teams, including track, cross country, and softball. Her commitment extended beyond the classroom as she lovingly delivered Buddy Packs every Thursday, ensuring no child went hungry. Additionally, after her retirement, Crystal dedicated her time to serving on the school board of the Southern Boone County R-1 School District for nearly two years.

Outside of work, Crystal found immense joy in spending time with her family, especially her grandbabies who held a special place in her heart. She cherished moments with them, making sure they always felt loved and valued. In her leisure time, Crystal enjoyed traveling with friends, creating beautiful scrapbooks, and hosting memorable 4th of July parties where she delighted in distributing sparklers to all attendees. Crystal will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all those whose lives she touched with her kindness, dedication, and unwavering love.

Crystal is survived by her loving husband Jeffrey Branch; her children Cody Branch and wife Erin, Courtney Collins and Jacob Collins, Colby Branch; her grandchildren Everly Branch, Jaymie Collins, Harlee Collins, Timber Collins; her parents Ronald and Marilyn White; her sister Veronica Smith and husband Richard; her brother Douglas White and wife Anna; two aunts Janet Johnson and husband Charles and Carolyn Lott; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Gene and Doris Hamilton; paternal grandparents, Arvil and Dorothy Walker; her aunt, Marilyn Alice White.

A visitation will be held on March 3, 2024, at the Southern Boone Primary School Gymnasium, 803 S. Henry Clay Blvd. Ashland, MO 65010, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM followed by a Celebration of Life starting at 4:30 PM. The community is invited to join in honoring Crystal’s remarkable life and the family asks that you wear red or your favorite Southern Boone Eagles attire.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Southern Boone Buddy Pack Program, c/o Robinson-Yager Funeral Home PO Box 68, Ashland, MO 65010. You may give online at: https://gofund.me/e54a4d05

Robinson-Yager Funeral Home is honored to serve the Branch Family.