Frances Brannan

Frances Kathleen Barbee Brannan, 92, of Lumberton, went peacefully to be with the Lord on October 10, 2018. She was born on August 17, 1926, in Center, Texas, to James Esko Barbee and Eva Barlow Barbee.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 68 years, Richard Henry Brannan, Jr., and her only sister, Marie Barbee Cole. Frances attended the First Pentecostal Church of Jasper until she married Richard on March 9, 1947. Their wedding was officiated by her pastor, Rev. Mason Stark. They then moved to Beaumont, Texas, where Richard was employed by Jefferson Drug Company.

Frances and Richard were charter members of The Apostolic Church of Beaumont since its inception in 1969. She was very involved in ladies auxiliary and fundraising efforts which contributed towards the Building Fund for the current church sanctuary, located at 3333 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas. She and Richard could be found participating in church Golden Plus events and fundraisers such as barbecue dinners, Apostolic Trade Days, church garage sales and peanut brittle sales, and they looked forward to every Tuesday morning prayer service. Together, they read the Bible through every year for many, many years.

She was a fantastic cook, and holiday meals were memorable in her home. Homemade coconut pie was her specialty, and “DeeDee’s” cherry birthday cakes were a delicious tradition. She loved to fish and garden. She crafted numerous gorgeous hand-made quilts, which she gifted to her family. Frances was a prayer warrior who had a quiet, reserved exterior, but a strong will to serve God. She lived a life of true faithfulness.

Frances leaves behind her daughter, Sharon June Wrinkle; son, Phil Brannan and wife, Robin Smith Brannan; granddaughters, Melodi Wrinkle Price and husband, Clint Price; Melissa Wrinkle; Sunni Brannan Gonzales and husband, Shayne Gonzales; and great-granddaughter, Savannah Kate Gonzales. She is also survived by niece, Michelle Cole LaBrie and husband, Rev. Michael LaBrie; and nephew, Marvin Wendell Cole. She cherished her life-long friendships here on earth, but her greatest desire has been fulfilled: to move from the Church Militant and join the Church Triumphant!

A gathering of Mrs. Brannan’s family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m., with her funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 13, 2018, at The Apostolic Church, 3333 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont. Her interment will follow at Magnolia Cemetery, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.