“And He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain, the first things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4

Mrs. Salley Melissa Branch was born July 19, 1961, to the late Glen Burbage and the late Nancy Doris
Hinson, in Charleston County, South Carolina.

She attended Middleton High School and graduated with the Class of 1979. She continued her education at the College of Charleston, graduating with the Class of 1985. She later attended The Citadel, where she earned her Master’s Degree and graduated with the Class of 1995.

Salley met and married the love of her life, Judge Willard Branch, on July 31, 1999, and to this union two beautiful daughters were born.

With her husband and daughters, they moved to Fairfax, South Carolina.

Her faith and belief in God were expressed when she united in membership at Fairfax First Baptist Church.
She was a dedicated and faithful member of her church. She sang in the choir and willingly stepped in
wherever needed to assist in other departments of the church.

Salley was full of love, life, wisdom, and laughter. During her leisure time, she enjoyed reading, going to the beach, baking, watching Clemson Tiger Football, traveling, and spending time with her family. She will be remembered for her infectious smile, kindness, advocacy, and gentle soul.

She was an employee of the South Carolina Department of Social Services for 28 years. She most recently served as the County Director in Allendale County, South Carolina.

Salley received our Savior’s summons and succumbed to an eternal bliss on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in the
The comfort of her home.

Salley’s departure has left a tremendous void in her home and the lives of her beloved husband of 27 years, Judge Willard D. Branch, of the home; (2) Daughters: Shelby (Kevontae Paul) Branch; North
Charleston, SC; Kari (Dakota Van Vlack) Branch; Neeses, SC (2) Brothers: Danny (Cathy) Burbage;
Summerville, SC; Pete Burbage; James Island, SC; (1) Sister: Suzy (Cooper) Burbage Williams;
Galivants Ferry, SC; Father – In – Law: Willard “Spec” Branch, Sr; North Charleston, SC; (3)
Nephews: Lee (Becca) Burbage, North Charleston, SC; Jesse (Jenneniah) Williams, Fairfax,
SC; Tyler Burbage; James Island, SC; (1) Niece: Victoria (Chris) Sumner; Pelion, SC; (2)
Sisters – In – Law: Dionne Conely (her son Dylan); Summerville, SC; Susie Surrell (her sons: Jay and Justin); Rockport, TX. A host of loving cousins and sympathizing friends.

“A SERVICE ABOVE SELF”

Please remember to keep the Branch Family lifted in prayer.

You may email condolences to: mfrileysfuneralhome@yahoo.com