Paul Michael Branson

Paul Michael Branson, 73, of Grove City, passed away suddenly on January 14, 2025. Born on May 1, 1951, in San Mateo, California, to A.H. and Juliet (McClerkin) Branson, Paul’s life was one of passion, service, and connection to family and friends.

Paul’s interests ranged from aviation and computers to all things Disney –he found some of his happiest moments surrounded by loved ones at Disney World. A proud veteran, Paul served as a sergeant in the U.S. Air Force before pursuing a legal career. He earned his J.D. from the University of Dayton and worked in several law firms, ultimately retiring from the Ohio Department of Health. Paul was also a devoted pet owner, cherishing his pets Giovanni, Walter, and Rumi.

Paul is survived by his daughters Lisa (Chris) Knodel and Sara (Brian) Easley; stepchildren Jason (Momoko) Ruddy, Emily Hooper, and Loretta Ramsey; and grandchildren Kaiya and Kaden Knodel. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Byrd, his nephews, and many friends who will remember him fondly.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Kathleen Branson, with whom he shared many joyful years.

A service, including military honors, will be held January 24 at 11:30 a.m. at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 5600 E. Broad Street in Columbus. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org. 

To share a condolence with the family, please visit www.NewcomerColumbus.com

Arrangements in the care of the NEWCOME SOUTHWEST CHAPEL.