Nancy Branch

Nancy (Hearn) Branch passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025 after a long
struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Her family is heartbroken but grateful that she is now
at peace. She was 86. Nancy was born January 10, 1939 to Betty and Herschel Hearn
in Athens, GA. The family soon moved to Kinston, NC, where Nancy grew up enjoying
summers at the recreation center pool and going to the beach. She played piano at
country churches and accompanied school choruses, graduating from Grainger HS in
1957. She earned a music education degree from Greensboro College in 1963 and
taught K-6 music in Maryland. On a whim, she and a friend attended summer school at
CU Boulder, where she met several Littleton teachers who became lifelong friends and
convinced her to relocate. In Denver, Nancy’s beautiful soprano voice, enthusiasm, and
warm personality made her welcome at city choruses and in her church choir. There,
she met Bill Branch, who would become her husband of 60 years. They raised two
children while Nancy excelled at teaching Orff music to children ages 3-7, music at
Graland Country Day School, and private piano lessons. She also found great joy in
drawing and watercolor art. She is survived by husband Bill, children Jennifer (Peter
Edwards) and Jonathan (Judy), grandsons Davis and Graham, and siblings Jim Hearn
and Sarah Hearn-Vonfoerster. Nancy was predeceased by brother Tony Hearn. A
memorial service will be held on October 18, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. at Park Hill
Congregational Church, 2600 Leyden St., Denver. In lieu of flowers, Nancy valued
donations to the Art Students League of Denver or Park Hill Congregational Church.