It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Walter Wallace Branch, Jr., 79, of Yorktown. Wallace was born on June 13, 1944, and passed away peacefully on November 18, 2023.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Wallace Branch, Sr., and Gladys P. Branch; his brother, Stephen Branch; and sister-in-law, Carol Branch.

Wallace graduated from Warwick High School and the apprenticeship program of Local Union 540. While attending the apprenticeship program, he was hired by Warwick Plumbing and Heating and retired after a 40-year career with the company. He proudly held Foreman and General Foreman positions and earned his 60-year membership pin with the local union.

While in high school, Wallace met the love of his life, Nancy Lou Womble Branch and they married in 1965. Wallace and his wife were blessed with five loving and supportive children, Jeff (Lisa), Robbie (Nikki), Donnie, Lesa (Jeremy, and Mike; eight grandchildren, Jeffery (Kristin), Amanda (Tyler), Braeden (Moriah), Logan (Jake), Seth, Kaitlynn (Marcus), Chase, and Alyssa; and three great-grandchildren, Oliver, Finley, and Ivy Lou with one more baby girl on the way. He also leaves behind his sister, Joan Scott (Herman); brother-in-law, Ronnie Womble (Teresa); and several other extended family members.

Wallace was a Classic Cruisers Car Club member and entered his prize Camaros in many classic car shows with his best friend, Tom Pascal. He never knew a stranger. Wallace was so proud of his family and his car collection. Alzheimer’s took him from us early, but our precious memories will stay in our hearts forever.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 24, 2023, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home in Newport News with a private burial for the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Wallace’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, as he would have wanted to support their efforts in finding a cure for this devastating disease.