News at ABWE
Dr. Bill Branda Promoted To Glory
Early in the morning on March 25, Dr. Bill Branda, one of ABWE’s long-time missionaries, graduated to heaven. Bill was born January 7, 1935, to Esther and Robert Branda in Ferndale, Michigan. He earned a BS from Michigan State University in 1957 and then obtained a ThB from Central Conservative Baptist Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1960. During his college years, he met Thespena Trouvos, and they were married in 1958.
Bill and Thes Branda joined ABWE in October 1960, and in 1962 they arrived in Northeast Brazil. After completing one year of language study in Fortaleza, they began a church-planting ministry in the city of Natal. In 1966 Bill assumed the position of director of the Bible Institute in Natal and also served as a professor and church planter. The Brandas started three churches, taking two of them to autonomy and building up at least four other churches until they were fully organized and in the hands of nationals. Bill also served in numerous other roles, such as camp director, field council chairman, and treasurer. His ministry in Natal spanned over forty years.
In May 1980, Bill received an honorary Doctorate from Central Baptist Theological Seminary. He was respected as a missionary, pastor, and leader by missionaries and Brazilian nationals. Because of his dedication to the ministry and love for the Lord, there will be many who will walk the streets of heaven. Many have matured in their walk with the Lord through his leadership and will continue the work that has been started.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Thes, and three children: Dan Branda, Dawn Spink, and Debbie Purnell.
Memorial Service in Lakeland, Florida
Tuesday, March 28, 2 pm
Calvary Baptist Church
1945 North Florida Ave.
Lakeland, FL 33805
863-683-6781Memorial Service in Grand Blanc, Michigan
Saturday, April 1, 11 am
Bethany Baptist Church
2353 E. Grand Blanc Rd.
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
810-694-6854
In lieu of flowers, we respectfully ask you to consider the William Branda Memorial Fund set up at ABWE. Please earmark gifts for the William Branda Memorial Fund.
ABWE
PO Box 8585
Harrisburg, PA 17105-8585