Ivan Waverly Branch, 87, of Lexington died Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Shenandoah Health & Rehab. 

Born March, 13, 1939, he was a son of Curtis Washington Branch and Clemmie Ann Johnson Branch.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Irene Zimbro Branch; daughter, Janet Renee Branch Field; siblings, Thomas Branch, Elwood Branch, Jerry Branch, (twin brother) Evan Willard Branch and Mary Ann Johnson.

Ivan retired from VMI with 43 years of service in the Physics Department.  He was a lifelong member of the New Monmouth Presbyterian Church, serving as deacon and elder. Ivan was also a member of the Kerrs Creek Ruritan Club since 1968 and achieved a perfect attendance record. He held all officer positions in the Ruritans and was district governor in 1990. Hunting, fishing and gardening were some of his favorite pastime activities.  Ivan loved playing the guitar and singing. He was in many bands and even had his own "Country Friends".

Surviving are his siblings, John Branch (Marlene) and Christine Rowe; sister-in-law Kathy Branch; brother- in-law David Johnson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral will be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, at Harrison Funeral Chapel by the Rev. Casey Clark, the Rev. Rachel Clark and the Rev Terry Bostic. Burial will follow at New Monmouth Presbyterian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.