Obituary of Celestine Branch Frye

The Obsequies of Celestine Branch-Frye

Celestine McKinney Branch Frye, age 84, departed this life peacefully on November 11, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of grace, strength, and an unwavering devotion to her family. A devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished Grandma, Celestine personified the qualities of compassion and resilience throughout her life.

Early Life and Education

Celestine McKinney was born on December 9, 1939, in Sherman, Texas, to J. B. and Liddie Lue McKinney. As the eldest of three children, Celestine was a natural leader, excelling in academics from a young age. She graduated at the top of her class from Frederick Douglass High School in 1958 and pursued higher education at Grayson County College, Texas Christian University, the University of Texas at Arlington, and DCCD State of Texas.

Family Life

In 1958, Celestine married Robert D. Branch, Sr., and together they had four children. Later in life, she married Horace R. Frye, Sr. on September 2, 1994, blending two families with love and joy. This union expanded to include six children. In 1999, Celestine and Horace moved to DeSoto, Texas, to enjoy their retirement years and to be closer to their beloved family and friends.

A Trailblazer in Nursing

Celestine’s professional career was marked by dedication and excellence. She was one of the first African American nurses hired by the Veterans Administration Hospital, and her career included serving as a nurse with the United States Army, the United States Air Force, and the State of Texas, specializing in psychiatric nursing. Her contributions to the medical field were vast, and she was deeply respected by her colleagues and patients alike.

Community Engagement

Celestine was an active and engaged member of her community. Her dedication to others extended beyond her career and family life. She volunteered with the American Red Cross, Veterans Administration Hospital, the Texas Nursing Association, and the DeSoto Chamber of Commerce. Her contributions were recognized by the City of DeSoto, which proclaimed December 6, 2014, as “Celestine McKinney Branch Frye Day.” She was also nominated as a Democratic Party delegate during Jesse Jackson’s run for U.S. President.

Celestine was a faithful member of her church, attending St. Luke Community United Methodist Church and Church of the Disciple United Methodist Church. Her spiritual life was a guiding force, grounding her in faith and service to others.

Legacy of Love

Celestine was preceded in death by her parents, J.B. and Liddie Lue McKinney; her beloved husband Horace Frye, Sr.; her sister Cora Lee Brooks; and her brother-in-law Henry Earl Thompson.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her children, Robert Branch, Jr., Rhonda Branch Yearby (Monroe), Latanya Branch, Loring Branch (Allycin), Jeanette Carr, and Horace Frye, Jr. (Sharon); her sisters, Dorothy “Tootie” Thompson and Liddie “Whinkie” Spencer (John); 18 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Wendy Jimenez, Celestine’s caregiver, for the exceptional care and love she provided.

A Life Well Lived

Celestine's circle of life is now complete. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who know her. Her legacy of love, service, and grace will continue to inspire and guide those whose lives she touched.

Rest in peace, Celestine Branch Frye. Your journey on this earth has ended, but your impact will remain forever in the lives of your family, friends, and community.