Birth date: May 28, 1997 Death date: Aug 11, 2025
Kendrik Tyrell Branch: A passionate man with a loving spirit and a creative genius. Kendrik was born on May 28, 1997 in Tampa, Florida to Rebecca Branch and Rodney McCall. Passing away on August 11, 2025, he leaves behind the leg Read Obituary
Rest in peace Kendrik, I remember when we were both in the CARE program and we would run into each other on campus, in the CARE lab or even off campus. Even afterwards when I came back to Tampa, you would invite me to hangout with the boys. Thank you for being such a sweet, kind, humorous soul. Que pas descansa.
It's hard to say goodbye to Kendrik.
He wasn’t a perfect guy, and let's be honest, none of us are. He had his moments, and I know we all have a story or two about a time we butted heads with him. But for every one of those times, there was a moment where he’d get that huge, goofy grin on his face, lost in a great story, and that’s the image I'll always keep. What really defined Kendrik, for me, was his humanity. He was the guy who would always try to do the right thing. He wasn't a classic hero with a cape, but he tried to do right by people. He was always there to listen, even if he didn’t know what to say, and his presence was a comfort. That, more than anything, is the kind of man I want to remember.
Kendrik had a unique way of reminding us that what truly matters isn't the big accomplishments, but the small, meaningful connections we make. He was a living example of how connecting with people isn’t a transaction; it's a spark that moves through us and out into the world.
As many of you know, Kendrik was a massive fan of comic book characters like Static Shock. He could talk your ear off about the origin story of every hero and villain. He wasn’t just in it for the flashy fights and special effects. He was fascinated by how a hero's trauma shaped their strength, or how a villain’s sad backstory explained their pain. He appreciated that even the most powerful characters were flawed and complex. In his own way, Kendrik was heroic. He didn't wear a mask, but he had a quiet strength that was just as powerful. He was brave in his compassion, a champion for his friends, and always ready to lend a hand, just like the characters he so admired.
There's a quote from the philosopher Alan Watts that reminds me of how Kendrik lived. Watts said, "I would rather have a short life that is full of what I love doing, than a long life spent in a miserable way." Kendrik took that to heart. He didn't play it safe—not with his friendships, and certainly not with his dreams. He knew that the best things in life were waiting just beyond the comfort zone.
His absence leaves a hole that words can't fill, but his memory, his legacy of courage, is a light that will continue to guide us. Let’s not try to fill the void, but instead, let us carry on his legacy. Let's be a little more present, a little more willing to take a chance, and a little more forgiving of each other’s flaws, just as he was. Let’s honor Kendrik Branch by living a life we truly want to live, and in doing so, we keep a piece of his special heart alive.
Kenny wasn’t only my friend during our time together FSU. He was my roommate, my captain, and most importantly, he was a taste of family while I was away from my family. We bonded over many things such as our love for movies, music, thrifting and our love for the boat boys.
Everyone knows his love for comics and I was able to share a very special memory with him during our college days. I’ll never forget the day he asked me to come watch “Into the Spider-Verse” with him not knowing too many details about the movie. He just said I have to go with him no ifs-ands-or-buts. Little did I know I was about to share a memory with Kenny that would last a lifetime. If ever there was a movie that encompassed Kenny as a whole, it was this one. It had the superhero aspect, it was beautifully animated which catered to Kenny’s love of art, the soundtrack was impeccable which spoke to Kenny’s love for music and most of all, the movie was shot in a way that replicated taking a comic book page and putting it on the big screen. A perfect movie for Kenny. As soon as the movie started, we gave each other a look and a smile that will forever be engrained in my head. I was fortunate enough to share this experience with him.
He sprinkled so much subtle wisdom during our time together, that to this day, I am constantly reminded of the little lessons and outlooks I have that came from Kenny. The first meal I ever learned to make was from Kenny, his famous tricolor rotini recipe. To this day I still make the meal and when it comes time to shred the chicken, Kenny’s voice always comes to mind telling me, “You have to go against the grain.” Which truly makes the job 1000% easier. He always found the best ways to approach things and never hesitated to share it with others.
I will never forget his big contagious smile that he always had on his face and his love for making music that started when we were living together. He truly was the biggest teddy bear that was always willing to spread love instead of hate. He was the kind of person who even if you interacted with him a handful of times he left an impact. And I know everyone he did impact will always carry a part of him forever.
I love you Kenny and the boat boys and I will forever cherish our time together and carry you forever in our hearts.
Kendrick was always easy going & had a kind word for everyone. He brightened the room with his smile. I will miss you, friend.
Kendrick and I shared few words but I am absolutely shattered to hear that we lost a fellow knight. The memories I have of him, always include a smile. He had a very bright aura about him and he seemed like the type to always help someone if they needed it. I send my deepest condolences to all his loved ones. He deserved more time than he was given. 🕊️
This still doesn’t feel real brother. We have so many memories, and yet I feel like we didn’t make enough. I’m so glad we were able to make it down to Key West last year, that was something we wanted to do for years and finally made it happen. It has been my honor to know you, and even more so to call you one of my closest friends.
You helped me up when I was down, made me laugh when I was upset or sad, and shared positivity any chance you could. You offered the best advice, and sometimes a simple conversation with you made the world a little bit better. You were easily the most talented person I knew. From music, to artwork, and all the other ways you expressed yourself. I’m gonna miss that I can’t call you to check in anymore, as you have done for me and so many others that connected with you…
Fly high big dawg and keep watch over all of us. The days haven’t been as bright recently, but I know you would want to see everyone happy regardless…. I love you man and I miss you dearly…
