Philip Lanier Branson III, 59, of Dawsonville, died Feb. 2, 2013.

Born Nov. 19, 1953 in Atlanta, he had lived in Dawson County for the past 15 years.

Mr. Branson received his Master's Degree in Political Science from Appalachian State University and was a beloved teacher and dedicated to his work in the special education department at Riverview Middle School.

He coached soccer at Riverview and refereed soccer for Dawson County Parks and Recreation for many years.

His father, Philip L. Branson Jr., preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife of 21 years, Laura Branson of Dawsonville; children, John Branson, Luke Branson, LauraAnne Branson, all of Dawsonville, Vanessa Branson Kuennen, Julian Wright Branson, both of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla.; mother, Catharine Branson of Destin, Fla.; sisters, Kate Branson Dorland of Mobile, Ala., Peggy Branson Dibble of Destin, Fla.; granddaughters, Delaney Kuennen, Mylie Kuennen; various other relatives also survive.

Memorial services were held at 2 p.m. Feb. 5 in the Bearden Funeral Home Chapel.

The family requested donations be made for the education of his children and may be sent to the: Branson Educational Fund, P.O. Box 185, Dawsonville, GA 30534.

Bearden Funeral Home of Dawsonville was in charge of the arrangements.