Rtd Staff Sgt. Richard A. Branham, 73, of Shelbyville died Monday, September 26, 2011, at his  residence.

     Born Jan. 24, 1938, in New Castle, he was the son of Cletus and Dorothy (Mayne) Branham.  He married Emma "Tina" Darling on Aug. 7, 1989, and she survives.

     Other survivors include sons, Randy (Penny) Darling and Billy Darling, both of Shelbyville, Tommy (Frances) Darling, Rick Branham, and Doug Branham, all of Indianapolis, Jim (Jeanell) Darling of Acton and Dave (Carol) Branham of New Palestine; daughters, Patty Jett of Knightstown and Amanda Thomas of Indianapolis; 21 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother Stub (Teresa) Branham of Knightstown; and sister, Norma Bailey of Union City.

     He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.

     Mr.Branham was a U.S. Army veteran, retiring after 28 years of service at the rank of staff sergerant.

     Richard enjoyed fishing and camping.

     Visitation will be from 1:30 to 2:30 P.M. Thursday at Murphy-Parks Funeral Service and Crematory, 703 S. Harrison St.

     Funeral services will be at 2:30 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Eddie Hines officiating.

     Burial will be in Whispering Hope Memorial Gardens, with full military rites conducted by the Indiana National Guard Ceremonial Team.

     The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions honoring Richard may be made to the Heroes of Honor and Glory Monument in care of Murphy-Parks Funeral Service and Crematory, 703 S. Harrison St., Shelbyville, IN  46176.

     An online guest book may be signed at www.murphyparks.com.