On Friday, December 5, 2008, Walter Edwin "Dutchie" Brannan, heard his name and peacefully entered into the portals of heaven at his home in Ruther Glen, VA. Dutchie was born April 10, 1928 to the late Walter Lewis and Maude Irene Moore Brannan in Caroline County, VA. He was the youngest of their three children. Sister Mabel preceded in death.

At an early age he accepted Christ at the St. Luke Baptist Church. Dutchie received his education at the Dunbar High School in Washington, D. C.

At the age of 17 he decided to join the Armed Forces and pursued a career of 26 years in which he traveled all over the world. After coming home in 1970 he then worked for the United States Postal Service in Richmond, VA for 20 years. During this time he remained faithful to Christ. When time permitted Dutchie enjoyed hunting, fishing, and cooking.

In 1957, "Dutchie" was married to the late Annabell Dill Brannan and to this union a daughter, Sharon, was born. Then on October 18, 1960, he gave Sharon another mother, Kathryn Tolliver Brannan. For these 48 years they loved and cherished each other.

"Dutchie", as he was affectionately known, was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Because of his military upbringing he was a very disciplined man. He loved life and all people he encountered. He was considered a "Dapper Man" because he liked to dress-up and wear suits and hats. He really loved to hunt and fish. His willingness to help his friends and neighbors made him a unique and loving person. He was always willing to give advice and tell stories of his military and life adventures.

He leaves to cherish fond memories his devoted and loving wife, Kathryn Brannan, two daughters, Sharon and Francine Brannan, his son, Edwin Brannan, seven grandchildren: Johnathan "Booney" Brannan, twins--Angela and Angeline, Howard White, Jr., Edwin, Jr., and Tabitha Brannan, and LaQuan Parker; eighteen great-grandchildren; one sister, Irene Brannan Beverly; one sister-in-law, Gloria Tolliver, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2008, at 1:00 P.M., at St. Luke Baptist Church, 19271 Frog Level Road, Ruther Glen, VA 22546. Burial will follow in Mt. Tabor Baptist Church Cemetery, 24795 Mattaponi Trail, Shumansville, VA 22550.

A viewing will be held on Friday, December 12, 2008 from Noon to 8:00 P.M. with the family receiving friends from 7:00P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Saturday.