Mark Edward Branson, 66, of Greenfield, passed away on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at his home.
He was born July 24, 1958, in Shelbyville, IN, the son of John and Barbara (Gephart) Branson. Mark is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Mary Ann (Reed) Branson.
In addition to Mary Ann, Mark is survived by his mother of Ray’s Crossing, IN; brother, Mike (Diane) Branson of Ray’s Crossing, IN; sons, Jeremy Wellman of Morristown, IN; Cody Hunsinger (Morgan) of Syracuse, UT; Heath Branson of Nashville, IN; and Cody (Wesley) Branson of Indianapolis; daughter-in-law, Malissa Hunsinger of Greenfield, IN; grandchildren, Kayla (Austin) Hunsinger, Ella (Logan) Hunsinger, January Hunsinger, Grayson Hunsinger, Quinn Carranza, Reuben Branson, Hendrix Branson, and Reign Branson; sister-in-law, Donna Reed, of Arlington, IN; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father; sister, Brenda (Branson) Cole; son, Sean Hunsinger; and brother-in-law, Randy Reed.
Mark graduated from Morristown High School in 1976. He was a man of many talents and even more stories. A retired engineer, he spent his later years enjoying life with his wife, Mary Ann, and his constant companion, his dog, Koop. He had a gift with animals—especially dogs—and anyone who knew him could attest to his calming presence and uncanny ability to connect with four-legged friends. He was, in every sense, an animal whisperer. There is nothing Mark wouldn’t do for his family, from building detailed dollhouses for his granddaughters to creating stories of his beloved friend, Smokey the Dragon, to keep them believing in magic.
Mark’s hobbies reflected his curious and meticulous nature. He enjoyed collecting knives, savoring fine whiskey and cigars, and tending to his koi pond with great care. He loved nothing more than sharing good conversation, a drink, and a smoke with his sons—and lately, with his soon-to-be grandsons-in-law. His home was filled with warmth, laughter, and the smell of cigar smoke drifting from the back porch. A skilled builder and problem-solver, Mark was the person everyone called when something needed doing. He took pride in being the “go-to guy,” and even more pride in always being right (which he was—at least, according to him). He had a sharp wit, a heart full of stories from his travels, and a quiet strength that grounded those around him.
Mark leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the joy of knowing him.
A Celebration of Mark’s life will be held at a later date.
Services have been entrusted to Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St., Shelbyville, Indiana 46176.
Memorial contributions may be made to Partners for Animal Welfare Society (P.A.W.S. Hancock).
Online condolences may be shared with Mark’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.
