Bertha Viola Brannon

Bertha Viola Brannon, age 89, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, in Portland, Oregon. Born on May 19, 1937, in Hooks, Texas she was the eighth of nine children born to Theodore Forte Sr., and Minnie Bell (Brown) Forte.

Bertha graduated from Hooks High School in May 1956. Shortly after graduation, with the help and support of her sister Janie Lue, she relocated to Portland, Oregon.  It was there that she met her future husband, Melvin Brannon, during a visit to his sister Zelda’s home.  She remembers him walking into the room and their eyes meeting. They became a couple and married in March 1957.  Initially settling in Seattle, Washington, they returned to Portland in 1971. They shared 53 years of marriage until Melvin’s passing in 2010, and lovingly raised five children.

Bertha was a devoted member of Friendship Baptist Church in Seattle and later Ebenezer Baptist Church in Portland.  Her faith was an integral part of her life and provided her with strength through challenging times. 

Throughout her life, she faced many health challenges yet endured them well, remaining  steadfastly committed to her family and loved ones. When able she enjoyed simple pleasures such as swimming, taking long walks that lasted for miles and allowed her to enjoy her surroundings. She graduated from secretarial school in Seattle, worked in the cafeteria at OHSU, and later attended Portland Community College.  Bertha had a passion for fashion, and loved shopping at second-hand stores. She was always searching for unique treasures that brought her delight. She loved Popeyes chicken and Pepsi or fruit juice was her drink of choice.  Holidays were especially meaningful to her, she took great pride in preparing large meals for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter-creating cherished memories for her family and friends. (Even making sweet potato pies for neighbors)

Bertha is survived by her five children: Marilyn, Gaylen, Melvin Jr., David and John; 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grand children, her sister Minnie Bell Crawford, sister-in-law Jean Winters, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and siblings: Theodore Forte Jr., General Thomas Forte, Rev. Ulyess Forte, Johnnie Mae Coleman, Janie Lue Nettles-Welter, Pearl Wesley Forte, and Arcelus Forte. 

Her warm smile, her bear hugs and love for family will be deeply missed by all of her loved ones.  May her memory bring comfort to those she leaves behind.

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