Overseer Janette Hopkins Branch

Overseer Janette Hopkins Branch was born and educated in Woodlyn, Delaware County, Pennsylvania. She was one of nine siblings born to James and Evangelist Georgia M. Hopkins (Roberts). At an early age, she joined the Fairview Baptist Church in Woodlyn as a candidate for baptism under the pastorate of the late Reverend Charles Cunningham.

Her gift of teaching and love of learning developed while a young person and continued in the educational ministries which include among others: Director of the Board of Education, Director of Social Services, Sunday School Superintendent (First Faith Baptist Church, Chester, PA). She also taught in both the Philadelphia and Chester school systems.

Overseer Janette Hopkins Branch continued to seek after more knowledge to present her gifts to God and the church. She completed a BA in Psychology, Education, and Sociology at Widener University, Chester, Pennsylvania, and Masters of Arts in Christian Ministry from Liberty University. She was currently working on a Master level degree at Bethany Bible College and Seminary, where she pursued a Master of Arts in Religion with a concentration in Biblical Counseling.

She was licensed to preach on June 17, 1987. (Calvary Apostolic Temple) and August 22, 1988 (First Faith Baptist Church), where she served as an associate Minister from 1983 – 1992.

Her Pastoral calling was established and in April 1992 – April 1994, she pastored the Second Baptist Church of Lebanon, Pennsylvania. She is a former member of the Harrisburg and vicinity ministerium.

Overseer Janette Hopkins Branch relocated to Alabama where she served as a Minister at the True Light Full Gospel Church, Enterprise, Alabama. She was currently the Pastor of the Upper Room Full Gospel Fellowship in Daleville, Alabama and the Founder and Overseer of the Tri-State Clergy Women's Association, Inc.

Many awards have been granted for her commitment to volunteer services and community affairs. Her talents and expertise have been shared with many organizations to the Glory of God.

The love of God was first and foremost in her life. She was a lover of God's word and his church. God anointed her to be a mentor, teacher, and Shepard over His flock. She was a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ and spread the light of the gospel wherever she traveled.

Overseer Janette Hopkins Branch is survived by her children; Melissa M. Branch, Samuel L. Branch III, Johnathan L. Robinson, and Mercedes B. Skidmore; siblings; Betty Young, Marian A. Hopkins, Rev. Dr. Edna Hopkins Rozier, David J. Hopkins, Dorita A. Hopkins, John M. Hopkins, Dennis C. Hopkins Esq. and Theresa Govens Hopkins. She leaves behind a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, and many close friends.

Overseer Janette Hopkins Branch is preceded in death by her sons, Samuel Branch Jr., Merle (Ramses) Alexander Branch and brother, James Hopkins Jr.