Mr. David E. “Little Dave” Branson, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at his residence.  Dave was born March 15, 1937, the son of James E. and Menthy E. (Keck) Branson.

      Dave was the owner and founder of Little Dave’s Down by the River Restaurant.  He later opened Little Dave’s Roadhouse Restaurants that continue to operate in both Brandenburg and McDaniels. Dave was a member of First General Baptist Church in Earlington, KY; a member of both the Masonic Lodge and the Kosair Shriner’s Temple; as well as a Kentucky Colonel.  In his free time, of which he didn’t have much, he thoroughly enjoyed playing golf and bowling.

      Dave was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Tim Branson; four brothers, Harley, Jarvis, Bruce and Odis Branson; and three sisters, Sunny Welton, Rosa Acree and Diane Janes.  He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Sue Branson; six children, Vicky (David) Greer, Terry (Carol) Branson, Todd (Laura) Branson, Bobby (Tonya) Goodman, Dustin (Shauwney) Kittinger, and Heather (Justin) Kinkade; two step sons, Mike and Pat Nugent; two sisters, Naomi LaRouche and Pat Kelly; his brother, Connie (Wanda) Branson; 12 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; and his extended LaTondress and Greer families.

      Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at the chapel of the Hager Funeral Home, with Rev. Mike Lake officiating.  The service will be streamed live on the Hager Funeral Home Youtube channel. Burial will follow in the Branson Family Cemetery.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11:00 AM until 8:00 PM on Tuesday, and from 9:00 AM until the time of service on Wednesday.