Dr. Richard Branton

Branton 1936~2018Dr. Richard G. Branton, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania passed away on October 15, 2018 at the age of 82. He was the loving and dedicated father to five children with Anne Taylor Branton, three sons Richard (Diana), Robert (Lorraine), and Roger (Denise) and two daughters Vivian (Brad) and Sharon (Shawn).Dr. Branton was also a loving grandfather to Jeremy, Krystal, Vanessa, Nicole, McKenzie, Julia, Robbie, Dean, Kaylyn, Drew, Megan, Angelina, and Dominic. Daughter Vivian preceded his death at age 53 on April 11, 2012. Dr. Branton was also preceded in death by his parents, Leroy, Sr. and Angelina (Troilo), his brothers Leroy, Jr. and Ken Branton. Dr. Branton received his undergraduate degree from West Chester University, his masters degree from the University of Delaware and his PhD in Mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Branton came to the Mathematics Department at West Chester University in 1962 and served there for the next 46 years, retiring with Professor Emeritus distinction in May 2008. While at West Chester, he served as Chairperson of the Department during 1970-1977 and 1999-2008, and Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs from 1977-1982. As Chairperson, Dr. Branton helped the department develop new undergraduate degree programs in computer science, applied mathematics and graduate programs in pure mathematics and statistics. As Provost, the University put in place: tenure policy, summer school policy, sabbatical leave, promotion policy and a liaison agreement with the Alumni Association. During his tenure, the University strengthened its support for faculty research, the Women’s Center, the Honors program, and the Pre Professional Program. He and several of his colleagues are credited for establishing the College of Arts and Sciences as the core of the University. The well being of the students was his overriding tenant of his career both as a professor and administrator. Dr. Branton was an accomplished carpenter, enjoyed reading, cooking, spending time at the beach and was an avid racquetball and squash player. Services will be held on Saturday, October 20, 2018 at 10:00am at First Presbyterian Church in Springfield, Pennsylvania. Donations in his memory can be made to West Chester University Foundation, P.O. Box 541, West Chester, PA 19381, with a notation to the benefit of The Mathematics Endowment. www,danjolell.com