Aver Johnson Braneff of DeQuincy passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, at a Houston hospital surrounded by family.
She was born to Harry and Estella (Stella) Gillis Johnson on Mar. 25, 1932, in Starks.
Aver was married to Melvin Braneff for 73 years and was the beloved Mother of Mel “Moe” (Jeanne) Braneff, Alvin, Texas; Leanne (Neil) Treme, Glenmora; Randy (Rhonda) Braneff, Abbeville; and Karen (Ross) Bubrig, Friendswood, Texas. She adored her 17 grandchildren, 56 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her best friend and sister, Jackie Schell, Bridge City, Texas; as well as, close friends, Layton LeBlanc, Oklahoma; John Williams, Mobile, Ala., Denise Darby, Visalia, Calif. and Colleen Pinder, DeQuincy.
She joins her husband, Melvin; son, Bobby Ray; brother, Buddy Johnson; and sisters, Inez Clark and Bobbie Johnson Braneff.
Aver was a pillar of strength and love for her family and community. She was known for her skill as a seamstress, creating beautiful gowns for her daughters. Her competitive spirit shone through in her love of sports including basketball, bowling and softball. She not only played these sports but also coached and inspired others.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Aver was an entrepreneur operating a grocery store in Starks and bowling alley restaurant in Sulphur. Her dedication to serving others extended to her work as she was a clerk with the United States Postal Service. She was a member of Eastern Heights Baptist Church where she was responsible for the “catchy” phrases on the church sign. She and Melvin loved playing dominos and pinocle.
The family received friends from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m., Monday, Sept. 2, at Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home in DeQuincy. Her son in love, Rev. Neil Charles Treme officiated. Interment followed in Clark Cemetery in Starks.
Pallbearers were grandsons, JonMarc Treme, Nathan Treme, Titus Treme, Jeremy Treme, Logan Braneff, Duce Braneff, Layton Braneff, Chance Braneff, and Chase Braneff, and great-grandson, Hayden Buxton.
Honorary pallbeares were granddaughters, Tiffani Venturella, Taylor Vergas, Ashleigh Guillory; and great-granddaughters, Devan Delia, Brylee Gail Delia, and Amilia Vargas.
Arrangements were handled by Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home, 1810 W. Fourth St., DeQuincy.
(Paid Memorial)
