Andrea Joan Jones Brannon-Transou

Andrea Joan Jones was born on July 7, 1950, to the late William and Katherine Warren Jones. From the very beginning, she carried herself with strength, beauty, and purpose-qualities that would define her life and legacy.

Our diva was a proud graduate of East Forsyth High School. After high school, she married the love of her life, the late-yet forever magnificent–Samuel Franklin Brannon. To all who knew and loved them, they were simply Sam and Ann, a couple whose love and devotion were evident to everyone around them.

Andrea was a faithful and dedicated servant of God. She was an active member of St. Paul United Methodist Church until its doors closed, after which she continued her walk of faith at Greater Faith Missionary Baptist Church. Her faith was not just something she spoke about-it was something she lived daily. She trusted God as her provider, her way maker, and her sustainer, with her foundation firmly rooted in God's living Word.

Our diva was not only a loving wife and devoted mother, but also a dedicated sister, aunt, and friend. In her earlier years, she worked at Burlington Sock, later moving on to Sears-ocated outside the mall-where many came to know her affectionately as "the candy lady." She never came home empty-handed, often bringing her favorites: red pistachios that turned our hands red but were oh so good, and those beloved maple nut goodies that made everyone smile.

Her warm personality and strong work ethic did not go unnoticed. Management soon offered her a position in the men's department, marking the beginning of a long and successful career with Sears. Eventually, Andrea retired-only to discover that sitting still was not in her nature. She went on to work for a pharmaceutical company as a pharmacy representative, and yes... she retired again.

But that still wasn't enough for our diva. Feeling the need to stay active and connected, she took a position at Biscuitville, where she greeted customers with warmth and joy and made some of the best biscuits you could ever imagine. As her health began to decline, Andrea retired once more-this time answering a higher call to rest.

Our mother had an outgoing personality and was never afraid to speak her mind. Her motto was, "If I think it, God already heard me say it, so I may as well say it." She lived boldly, honestly, and unapologetically–yet always with grace.

Andrea Brannon-Transou was a woman who walked in beauty, strength, and dignity at all times. Above all, her faith stood unshaken. She believed God wholeheartedly and trusted Him completely. Her life was a testimony, her love was a gift, and her legacy will live on through all who were blessed to know her.

Well done, good and faithful servant:

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

• John 3:16

Even as life brought change, transition, and challenge, Andrea remained steadfast. She knew that God's plan was greater than her own, and she leaned fully on Him through every season of her life.

We take comfort in knowing that our mother, Andrea Brannon-Transou has finished her work on earth and now rests peacefully in eternal glory. Her faith has become sight, her labor has ended, and her soul is at rest.

She Was Preceded in Death:

Andrea Brannon-Transou was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William and Katheline Jones; her devoted husband, Samuel Brannon; her cherished daughter, Samantha Shawnta Brannon; four loving sisters, Margaret Williams (Val), Patricia Dodd (Pat), Gaylia Warren Jones (Gail), and Jackie Watson; her dear brother, William "Mackie" Jones; her brother-in-law, Samuel Watson; and her treasured God-daughter, Nikki Watson.

She Leaves to Cherish Her Loving Memory:

She leaves behind a legacy of love and faith through her two devoted daughters: N'Kenge Michelle Carter (Jerry Carter) of Kernersville, North Carolina, and Samantha Elane Brannon-Pickett (James Pickett) of Kernersville, North Carolina.

Her memory will forever live on in her grandchildren, whom she adored: four grandsons-Darren Samuel Hunter of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Ezekiel Shane Smith; Zechariah Samuel Smith; and Kaleb Shawn Smith; and one beloved granddaughter, Dutchess Samdrea Elane Carter-Shepperson (Michael Shepperson).

She was also blessed with five precious great-grandchildren: Brayden Iascivita, Damien Hunter, and Bella Brannon (children of Darren Hunter), along with Xavier Shepperson and Zachary Shepperson (children of Dutchess Carter-Shepperson).

Andrea also leaves behind her beloved God-children, Leia "Shawnta" Jones and Annette Glenn, both of Kernersville, North Carolina.

She is further survived by two loving sisters, Jennifer Huff (Marvin Huff) and Deborah Watson, both of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; and her sister-in-law, Annatoria Jones (Tootie) of Kernersville, North Carolina.

In addition, she leaves behind her cherished circle of friendship known lovingly as "The Golden Girls" and her Birthday Club Members: Hope Workman, Enda Ellison, Eleanor Pilson, Rebecca White, Ms. Romaine, Patricia Garner, and Claudette Waiters (Coco-along with many, many other special friends whose lives were touched by her warmth, laughter, and love.

To the Nieces and Nephews:

She also leaves to cherish her memory a host of nieces and nephews; each one forever etched in her heart and continually covered in her prayers and love.

From the Family:

Thank you to all of our Mother's Closet friends who called, texted, and visited. Your love and support will never be forgotten.

To our family and friends-each of you held a special place in our mother's heart. We love you and thank you as well.

Edna Ellison’s note:

How does one place a lifelong friendship in just a few words? From five years old to seventy-five years old. From mud pies to double dates. From love to heartbreak. The little house and Motown are cherished memories. Ann, Deb, Cocoa and I were always together. Sometimes Lessie was included. We alternated Sundays, 1st and 3rd were St Paul. 2nd and 4th were Providence. So much of our lives were shared. Distance doesn't matter in genuine friendships. Love will last for eternity. Be waiting for me, my sister. I'll see you when I get there.

With Love,

N’Kenge (Missy) and Samantha

Though we grieve, we rejoice knowing that our diva has taken her final bow on earth and now rests peacefully in the arms of her Lord.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Hayworth-Miller Kernersville Chapel is assisting the family.