NOVEMBER 30, 1964 - FEBRUARY 15, 2026
Riley Payton Branch, 38, of Aspermont, Texas, passed away on February 22, 2026. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, Aspermont, with Brother Robbie Harris officiating. Friends are welcome to visit with the family following the service at the church.
Riley was born and raised in Aspermont, where he built a life defined by service, leadership, and deep devotion to his community. He graduated from Aspermont High School in 2006 and went on to attend Texas Tech University. In 2011, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Agriculture.
Continuing his education, Riley received his Law degree from Texas Tech school of Law in 2014 as well as his MBA from Texas Tech Rawls College of business.
Riley was a member of First Baptist Church, Aspermont.
In January 2017, Riley began serving as the Stonewall County Attorney, a position he held with integrity and dedication until his passing. It meant a great deal to him to serve the very community that had shaped him. He approached his work with compassion and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right.
Riley’s passion for agriculture and leadership began early through his involvement in FFA. His journey started in 2004 as an officer for the Double Mountain District. He went on to serve as an Area Officer from 2005–2006, a Texas State Officer from 2006–2007, and ultimately as a National Officer for the National FFA Association from 2008–2009. As a National officer, he traveled many miles all over the United States and abroad.
He continued to serve the National FFA association as a Blast off facilitator from 2011-present. FFA played a foundational role in his life, shaping his leadership, character, and lifelong friendships.
He is survived by his loving parents, Robert and Janet Branch; his sister, Ashley Bell, and her husband, Jared Bell; and his cherished nieces and nephews, Fletcher, Hadlee, Steelie, and Knox. He is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins who will miss him dearly.
Riley was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Leonard and Doris Branch, and his maternal grandparents, Maurice and Ruth Callan.
Riley will be remembered for his servant’s heart, his dedication to youth and agriculture, his commitment to justice, and his deep love for his family and hometown. His legacy of leadership and service will continue to live on in the countless lives he impacted.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Riley Branch Memorial FFA Scholarship C/O: First National Bank Aspermont PO Box Drawer A Aspermont Tx 79502