William Everett Brannon, Jr.

Memorial service for Bill (William Everett) Brannon Jr, age 75 of Sulphur Springs, Texas will be held at a later date. Mr. Brannon passed away on December 6, 2024 at Baylor Scott and White Heart Hospital – Plano. 

William Everett Brannon, Jr., known as Bill, passed away on December 7, 2024, at Baylor Heart Hospital in Plano, Texas, after a long and courageous battle with illness. True to his spirit, he fought hard and was still actively working as a Senior Consultant for the Texas Democratic Party at the time of his passing. 

Bill was a brilliant, generous soul with a heart so big it eventually gave in. To know him was to witness the power of authenticity and goodness; to lose him is to feel the weight of a world dimmed by his absence. 

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, on October 20, 1949, Bill was the son of William Everett Brannon and Mary DuQuesnay Brannon. He attended Catholic schools, fulfilling his mother’s wishes, and later moved with his family to St. Louis, where he completed high school. Bill eventually made his way to Texas, earning a degree in Political Science and History from North Texas University. It was there he discovered his passion for political science and its potential to create a better world for everyday people—a calling he dedicated his life to. 

Bill’s commitment to his beliefs was unwavering. He worked tirelessly to help countless individuals, many of whom never knew the extent of his efforts on their behalf. His selflessness was not driven by recognition or praise but by his deep belief in others and the causes they championed. Bill inspired confidence in his family and coworkers, always knowing when to offer a push. He was undoubtedly vocal and quick to react but offered steady guidance when patience was required. 

Bill is survived by his wife, Vali Walker Brannon; their sons and their families: Adam and Kim King, with Holton and Weston; Blake and Ashley Rhodes, with Grayson; Patrick and Sally Rhodes, with Smith, Bennett, and Kohen; his sister Lynn Golden; and his niece Brenda Boyd. Bill’s arrival to the family was a source of strength and stability, a reminder that no matter the circumstances, they were never alone. 

Among Bill’s many admirable qualities, his generosity stood out. He treated everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their station in life. He shared a particularly special bond with dogs—his own and others—whom he loved like family. Through these relationships, he taught us all the beauty of unconditional love. Sitting with his dogs, a good scotch in hand and a football game on, was one of his favorite ways to unwind. 

Bill had a sharp sense of humor, even in his hardest moments. A loyal Dallas Cowboys fan, he found both joy and frustration in cheering them on. In his final days, his humor shone through when he quipped, “Well, tell Jerry Jones he finally killed me.” 

An avid sports fan, Bill loved football and golf. He served several terms as president of the SS Country Club Board and relished playing golf with family and friends. Though illness eventually kept him from the game, he never lost his love for it. 

Bill’s life was a testament to generosity, dedication, and humanity. As he once said of someone he deeply admired, “He was one of the best people I ever met.” The same can undoubtedly be said of Bill himself. 

His absence leaves an irreplaceable void, but his legacy of kindness, integrity, and humor will endure in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

December 8, 2024 

Texas Democratic Party Mourns the Passing of Senior Advisor, Former Executive Director Bill Brannon AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Democratic Party mourns the passing of Bill Brannon, whose lifelong dedication to public service, political strategy, and the betterment of Texas will be indelibly marked. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa released the following statement: “Today, the Texas Democratic community grieves the passing of our longtime colleague and friend, Bill Brannon. For over four decades, Bill served as a cornerstone of our party, shaping our movement while supporting countless campaigns and initiatives. Bill’s legacy is one of mentorship, expertise, and unwavering belief in the power of collective action. “His contributions to the Texas Democratic Party and commitment to building a brighter future for all Texans will continue to inspire generations to come. May Texas Democrats continue to build upon Bill’s legacy through acts of friendship, investing in the next generation, and fervent commitment to bringing Texans together. “We extend our deepest condolences to Bill’s wife, Vali, as well as their sons, grandsons, and dogs during this difficult time. His mark on Texas and our party will be deeply missed but always remembered.” 

About Bill Brannon: Bill Brannon dedicated over 40 years of his life to politics and public service, leaving a profound impact on the Texas Democratic Party and the communities he served, particularly in east Texas where he earned the Democratic nomination for State House twice and held the title of Hopkins County Chair. As a seasoned consultant, he participated in over 150 campaigns at every level of government. Throughout his career, Brannon held numerous leadership roles within the Texas Democratic Party, including; Texas Young Democrats President, co-founder of the Non-Urban Rural Caucus, Redistricting Director, Rural Coordinator, Executive Director, and most recently, Senior Advisor. He also served as a trusted staff member for elected officials at both the state and federal levels, including roles as Legislative Liaison for Governor Ann Richards, District Director for U.S. Congressmen Max Sandlin and Jim Chapman, and consultant for State Representatives Mark Homer, Barry Telford, and State Senator Richard Anderson. Known for his expertise in administration, legislative analysis, communications, and outreach, Brannon worked tirelessly to support elected leaders and build coalitions within the Texas Democratic Party apparatus. His collaborative spirit, strategic mind, and unwavering dedication to justice and equity will continue to inspire generations of Texas Democrats.