Salley Melissa Branch, 64, passed away in the early morning hours of May 19, 2026, at her home in Fairfax, SC.
Born in Charleston, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Glen and Doris Burbage. She graduated from Middleton High school (1979), College of Charleston (1985), and The Citadel (1995). 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.
She was a member of Fairfax First Baptist Church where she was an active member, especially in the choir. She enjoyed reading, the beach, baking, Clemson Tiger football, and spending time with her family. She will be remembered for her infectious smile, kindness, advocacy, and gentle soul.
She is survived by her loving husband of 27 years, Judge Willard D. Branch Jr. of Fairfax, SC; her daughters Shelby Branch (Kevontae Paul) of North Charleston, SC and Kari Branch (Dakota Van Vlack) of Neeses, SC; her brothers Danny Burbage (Cathy) of Summerville, SC; Pete Burbage of James Island, SC; her sister Suzy Burbage (Cooper) of Galivants Ferry, SC; her nephews Lee Burbage (Becca) of North Charleston, SC; Jesse Williams (Jenneniah) of Fairfax, SC; Tyler Burbage of James Island, SC; her niece Victoria Sumner (Chris) of Pelion, SC; her sisters in law, several nephews, and special friends.
The family will receive friends at the viewing to be held from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 24th at Fairfax First Baptist Church, 725 Seventh Street West Fairfax, SC 29827. A celebration of life will be held directly following the viewing at 2:30 at Fairfax First Baptist. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society to support breast cancer research in memory of Salley Melissa Branch. Contributions can be made to End Cancer As We Know It, American Cancer Society