Thomas Alfred Branton passed away at home, surrounded by his wife and two children, the morning of June 25, 2015 after a long battle with kidney cancer. The son of the late Edward Everett and Dorothy Peeler Branton, Tommy was born and raised in Shelby, North Carolina where he graduated from Fallston High School in 1960. Tom met the love of his life, Sara Greene in 1958 at the Shelby Teen Club and they were married in 1962.

As co-owner and President of Dedmon's Concrete, Tommy quickly became a leader in the community, serving on the boards of First Citizens Bank and Carolina State Bank. He was past president of the Shelby Lions Club, the past Master of the Shelby Masonic Lodge #744 AF/AM Scottish Rite, the Oasis Shriners, past president of the Piedmont Shrine Club, and the Cleveland Country Club. He was also honored to serve as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Central United Methodist Church.

He loved the outdoors, and in addition to being an avid tennis player and skier, he would ride his horses almost every weekend.

He is survived by his wife, Sara Greene Branton; his daughter, Krista Miller and husband Jeff of Raleigh, NC and his son Brian Branton of New York City; his two grandchildren, Ryan and Emma Miller; his three siblings, Gaye Grimes and husband Bob of Wendell, NC, Carolyn Spangler and husband James and Bobby Branton and wife Jane of Shelby; ten nieces and nephews; and countless friends.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at 2:00PM at Central United Methodist Church with Rev. Craig Langston officiating. Visitation will follow the service in the fellowship hall.

Memorials can be made to: Central United Methodist Church 200 E. Marion St. Shelby, NC 28150, Hospice of Cleveland County 951 Wendover Heights Dr. Shelby, NC 28150, or a charity of donor's choice.

Cecil M Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Branton.

Guest Registry is available at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com