Kenneth Paul Branum, 79, of Amarillo, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026. An Amarillo native, Ken was born on September 28, 1946, to William and Helen (Thomas) Branum.
Memorial Services to celebrate Ken’s life will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 610 Lee Ave., Hereford, Texas.
Ken graduated from Canyon High School in 1965, where he proudly served as class president. He deeply cherished his classmates and lifelong friendships, especially those formed in Waynoka.
Throughout his life, Ken found joy in helping others and spent meaningful time in hospice care, touching many lives with his compassion and kindness. He enjoyed barbecuing, cooking, traveling, listening to others, and staying connected through his weekly emails titled “Just Thinking Out Loud,” which many looked forward to reading.
Above all, Ken had a deep faith in the Lord and loved following Jesus. His faith guided how he lived, how he cared for others, and how he encouraged those around him. He will be remembered for his warm heart, thoughtful spirit, sense of humor, and the genuine love and compassion he showed to everyone he met.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents, William A. Branum and Helen Jean Thomas Branum; his son, Kenneth Todd Branum; and his brothers, Michael Branum and Ronnie Branum.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jody Branum; his son, Kevin Miller Branum; his stepsons, William (Carie) Stark and Christopher Stark; his stepdaughter, Amy (Andy) Cao; his granddaughters, Rylee Stark and Sabine Cao; and his grandson, Baryn (Ellie) Stark.
Ken leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, friendship, and kindness that will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
Can’t say enough good things about this man He was one of the dearest friends I have ever known Heaven gained an amazing person and I’m sure he has many jewels in his crown for his undying love for Jesus He blessed many many lives including myself and my children To his son and wife your in my prayers
I’m so sorry Jodie. He was a good guy.
I will forever remain grateful for Kenneth’s kindness and helpfulness during my transition from pastoring a church to serving as chaplain at a retirement community.
Ken was one of the best. His communication with others and so much help to those in need. He was a good man.
I always enjoyed visiting with Ken. He was very instrumental in helping with activities at Brookdale Medi-Park Retirement & Assisted Living. Bringing a message on Sunday morning to many of the residents was very thoughtful and his messages offered a challenge and hope to those who needed a lift in their life.
It is sweet to think about how enthusiastically Duane would have greeted Ken into Heaven.
Duane always loved Ken, and, would have loved seeing him more. He enjoyed happy memories of their childhood together.
I am sorry that I did not know him, too! You have my deep sympathy for your great loss.
In love,
Jone Branum
My heart aches for Jodie and the family; praying they find comfort and peace during this time.
Don’t know what I would have done without Ken/s understanding, help and love when I was dealing with my Husband’s Alzheimers. Ken became a life long friend to me. Life is short people…grab on to each minute y9u have with friends and loved ones. Ken was one of the best.. blessings to his wife and family.
💜I am so sorry for the loss of Ken. We did a lot of things during the times we worked together for Hospice. Lots of laughing, crying and enjoying those times. He was a thoughtful soul. He will solely be missed✝️
Ken
What a precious man and fantastic cook , always with a smile! You will be dearly missed!
Pat and Carol Padilla