Ray Branham

Ray Branham

Ray Dean Branham, of Seattle, Washington, passed away on January 15th, 2026. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

Ray Dean Branham was born on February 20, 1939, in Chester, Oklahoma. After the death of his father at a young age, Ray was cared for by various family members. Although his childhood was filled with beauty, fun, and friendship, life was financially difficult. From an early age, he was determined to pursue an education and rise above those challenges.

Ray graduated from Fort Dodge High School in 1958. Inspired by his older brothers who served in the military, he enlisted in the United States Navy. As a member of the Navy Seabees, serving with USN MCB-4, Ray was stationed at Guantanamo and played a role during the Cuban Missile Crisis in the early 1960s.

Ray Branham

After completing his military service, Ray attended South Dakota State University, where he earned a Master’s degree in Biology in 1966 and a Master’s degree in Education in 1967.

Ray went on to serve with distinction as an Associate Professor of Biology at Franklin Pierce College. He later became President of the Faculty and served as Special Assistant to the President of Franklin Pierce University.

Diane and Ray

The funeral service will be held on July 10th, 2026 from 11:30 to 12:00 PM at the Tahoma National Cemetery (18600 SE 240th St, Kent, WA 98042). This will be followed by the Celebration of Life at 2:00 PM at our Shoreline home.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Diane, his devoted partner and better half; his daughter, Teresa Taing (Peter Taing); and his sons, William Branham and Henry Branham (Ana Orjuela).

He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Eason Taing, Oliver Taing, Isla Taing, and Chloe Orjuela.