Darcy Branagan

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Darcy Ann Branagan, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who passed away after a brief illness on December 17, 2024 at the age of 68 at Queen of the Valley hospital. Darcy lived a full, rich life dedicated to family, friends, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around her.

A lifelong resident of Napa County, Darcy was born November 24, 1956, to Eugene and Ruth Branagan. Always drawn to agriculture, the time she spent on the family ranch with her father selling Christmas trees is what fostered Darcy's deep love of the outdoors, gardening, animals and appreciation of the arts. She graduated from Vintage High School and obtained Associate degrees in Business and Plant Sciences from local community colleges. Darcy spent her career in the wine industry including many years with Domaine Chandon.

Darcy was known for her kindness, warmth, vibrant energy, strength, and fierce loyalty. She was a woman of many talents and interests, but her most cherished role was that of mother and grandmother. Through selfless dedication, she nurtured and guided her children with unwavering love, humor and wisdom. She tirelessly supported them through 4-H, competitive soccer, and marching band, while also creating magical birthdays and Christmas traditions. In recent years, Darcy devoted herself with joy to the care of her granddaughters. She took great pride in her family, and her legacy lives on through her children and grandchildren.

Her lifelong passions included animals, riding horses, gardening flowers, arts and crafts projects, photography, and coordinating parties and special events. Always active in her community, Darcy was a member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 4-H (Las Amigas), the Lions Club, and served as President of the PTA. A woman of faith, she always found ways to help others.

She is survived by her son, Eric Branagan-Franco; daughter, Bryce Howe; their father, Nicolas Franco and grandchildren, Fallon Howe and Bronwyn Branagan-Franco; and brother, Brad Branagan.

A memorial service will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal Church on January 18th, 2025 at 1pm. The family will receive family and friends following the service at the Branagan residence. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society or Sunrise Horse Rescue in her memory.

Darcy Branagan leaves behind a legacy of love, light, strength, and resilience that will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. Deeply missed but never forgotten - the heartbeat of our family -truly our queen of the valley.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Darcy Branagan, please visit our floral store.