Rev. Sylvestine P. Branch

Reverend Sylvestine "Pat" Branch was born December 22, 1951, to Sylvester Powell and Dorothy Grant in Richmond, VA. She attended Richmond Public Schools and was a proud graduate of Armstrong High School. Pat accepted Christ at a young age and served as an avid member of Cedar Street Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Benjamin Robertson, Sr. Pat was active in several ministries at Cedar Street; most notably, she served as a faithful member of the B.W. Robertson, Jr. Memorial Choir. On most Sundays, you could spot Pat singing and playing her tambourine to the glory of God. In the early 2000’s, Pat accepted the call to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Pat began her studies and enrolled at the Richmond Virginia Seminary, where she obtained a Bachelor of Theological Studies. Pat's love for education continued as she furthered her studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, earning a degree in Patient Counseling and Religious Studies. She culminated her learning by earning a Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Union University. Pat worked for Virgnia Power for thirteen years before transitioning to work for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Pat worked at Virginia Commonwealth University for eighteen years before retiring. Pat faithfully served the Lord, traveling around Richmond and beyond to minister. She loved to preach and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ. For several years, she was an associate minister at Cedar Street Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Anthony Michael Chandler, Sr., where she was ordained in ministry. Pat also loved being of service to others and outreach. Eventually, Pat joined New Light Baptist Church, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Vernon Hurte, and began serving as Minister of Evangelism. In addition to her work in ministry, Pat had numerous hobbies. She was an avid crafter, often making holiday wreaths for friends and family. She also loved to crochet and could usually be found making a blanket for her loved ones. Pat also loved to bowl. She was a member of several bowling leagues throughout the years and participated in tournaments across the country. Pat’s love, legacy, and life will be forever remembered and cherished by her family, friends, and all who encountered her presence. Pat is preceded in death by her parents, Sylvester Powell and Dorothy Grant and her brother, Wayne Powell. Pat is survived by her husband of 28 years, Carl A. Branch. Shewill be genuinely missed by her sons, Lewis,Troy, Jr., and Torren "TJ" (April), all of Richmond, Virginia. Her daughters,Carolyn (Jimmy) of Hinesville, Georgia and Courtney (Melvin) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Grandchildren: Shakiema, Lewis, Jr., Laniyah, Jne', Adejia, Troy III, Tory, Jaliyah, Shawn, Aaron, Torren II, Lauren, Khaleed, Jakarion, Rayna, and Anderson; six great-grandchildren; siblings Walter Powell, Jr. (Loretta), Sylvester “Skee” Powell, Jr., Stephanie Davis, and Sonja Glover; Godchildren, Damont Brooks and Chea Brown; devoted friends, Rita Russell and Ernestine Brooks; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Tributes

Rev. Sylvestine P. Branch

December 22, 1951 - May 9, 2023