Melvin Lee Branch

Melvin Lee Branch, age 78, of Oak Grove, MO, passed away on September 7, 2024, at St. Luke's Hospice House in Kansas City, MO.

He was born on July 12, 1946, in Versailles, MO, to Elmer Lee and Wilda (Sidebottom) Branch. Melvin married the love of his life, Linda Joyce Paul, on October 8, 1976, in Versailles.

A skilled handyman, Melvin was known for his generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand. He and Linda worked side by side for many years, sharing both work and life. Melvin often helped friends and neighbors with vehicle repairs, and his passion for trucking led him to own and operate his own dump truck. Over-the-road trucking brought him great joy, and he found fulfillment in a lifetime of hard work. His toughness and dedication were matched only by his kindness and generosity with his time and talents. He was a devoted husband to Linda and a loving father to Shanell.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Linda Branch, of Oak Grove; his daughter, Shanell Branch, of Kansas City; his sister, Lola Hayes, of Stover; his brother, Larry McCasland, of Stover; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepfather, Roy McCasland; and his brother, Speed Robert Branch.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Scrivner-Page-Dady Funeral Home in Stover, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Pastor Danny Owsley will officiate. Burial will follow at Versailles Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Family Worship Center in Versailles.