Ralph Branson Marley

Ralph Branson Marley "Branson", passed away on September 22, 2018 at the age of 96. He was born on April 11, 1922 to Arthur B. and Mary H. Marley in Pleasant Garden. Branson was a  member of Centre Friends Meeting and was the oldest member of Centre at the time of his death.

Branson graduated from Pleasant Garden High School in 1942 and was on the school baseball team that won state championships, 1939, 1940 and 1941. He continued his love of baseball throughout his life as a member of an adult league and later a Little League coach. Branson was an active member of the Level Cross Civitan's for many years and volunteered for the Senior Resource Center at Burnettes Chapel and delivered Meals on Wheels. He became a member of the Burnettes Chapel Seniors and went daily for food and fellowship with his friends. He rarely missed a day and was active until his health declined. He will miss all of his Burnette's Chapel Senior Friends. Branson enjoyed bowling and played in several leagues. Branson was born into a farming family, but had other jobs as well. He worked at a local sawmill, drove a truck for a chicken hatchery and in 1960 was employed by Burlington Industries until his retirement in 1982. After retirement he stayed busy with several part time jobs as well as farming. He enjoyed working the land and always had a garden with sweet corn and tomatoes. Even though he never lived outside of Pleasant Garden, Branson was always ready to take off to visit family in other states. Branson was married to his high school sweetheart, Margaret Caviness for 60 years, until her death in 2003. In addition to his wife and parents, Branson is preceded in death by his brothers, Cafer Marley, Eli Marley and Philip Marley.

Branson is survived by his children: Katrine East, Edith Routh (Dicky), Sharon Marley, James Marley (Lynne), Belinda Marley, Timothy Marley (Donna) and Melody Marley. He was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; a sister Linda Trogdon and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Monday, September 24, 2018 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Pugh Funeral Home, 600 South Main Street, Randleman, NC. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 25, 2018 at 11:00 am at Centre Friends Meeting, 325 NC Hwy. 62 E., Greensboro with Pastor Tommy Sluder, Jr. and Pastor David Hobson officiating.Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Centre Friends Meeting, P.O. Box 632, Randleman, NC 27317.