Joseph “Joe” Norman Branco passed away unexpectedly surrounded by family and friends, after a brief battle with cancer, March 28, 2024, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma at the age of 55 years 5 months 8 days.  Memorial services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024, at the Wadley’s Funeral Chapel, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.

Joe was born October 20, 1968, in Fullerton, California to Joseph and Paula Ann (Bent) Branco.  Raised in the warm embrace of California, Joe’s path crossed with that of his beloved wife, Gayla, whom he married on August 20, 1988. For 35 years they walked hand in hand through life’s joys and challenges.

A skilled craftsman at heart, Joe reveled in the art of repairing and refurbishing furniture to breathe new life into old treasures. He worked alongside his father at Branco Furniture Repair.  This is where his passion for antiquing reflected a deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship. 

In 2016, he moved with his family to Purcell, Oklahoma, where he enjoyed the open land and country lifestyle. A lover of outdoors, he would spend hours mowing and even more hours fishing in his pond. His desire was that everyone who came to visit would feel the excitement of pulling a catfish out of his pond. An enthusiast of bass fishing, he found peace by the water’s edge alongside his faithful companions Tater and Ringo. 

Among his many interests and hobbies, Joe found solace and joy in collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia - each piece a treasure that spoke to his heart. He was the one other collectors turned to for advice on pricing and originality.  Yet above all pursuits, Joe’s greatest joy lay in the loving embrace of his family. Every moment spent with those he held dear was cherished beyond measure. His presence was a beacon of warmth and love that illuminated the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He is preceded in death by his father, Joseph P. Branco, who he missed tremendously, and no doubt, ran into his loving arms for a beautiful reunion.  We take comfort in knowing that we will all be reunited again someday.

Joe is survived by his wife, Gayla Branco; his daughter, Jennifer Branco; his son, Joseph R. Branco and wife, Heaven; his mother, Paula Branco;  his sister, Renee Boling and husband, Brian; and numerous other relatives and friends.