ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — There have been many special people associated with The University of New Mexico athletics department. Turner Branch was one of those people. He never donned a uniform, he never made a basket, and he never played a down, but his impact and legacy has been felt both at UNM, in Albuquerque, and in the state of New Mexico for over 50 years.
Sadly, Turner Branch passed away on Thursday, August 4 in Phoenix, Arizona. However, Branch’s legacy at UNM will certainly live on. Tangibly, his legacy will live on through his tremendous philanthropy. Every time the Lobo Football team hits the field at home, they play on the turf that bears the name of he and his wife, Margaret and Turner Branch Field. Each year the men’s basketball team celebrates its season with the Branch Law Firm Men’s Basketball Banquet. The women’s golf team hosts the Branch Law Firm/Dick McGuire Invitational.
But the loss of Turner Branch isn’t about that. It’s about his friendship. It’s about his passion for The University of New Mexico, the school in which he graduated from in 1960. It’s about his commitment to Albuquerque, where he returned to practice law, founding the Branch Law Firm with his wife Margaret in 1966.
Turner Branch was a fixture at UNM events, noticeably in the fourth floor of the U.S. Bank Club Level at University Stadium, where he was always entertaining in Suite 9, greeting everyone with a smile.
He served his country in the Marine Corps. He served his city and state with his law practice, and he served his university with his pride and his philanthropy.
He will be sorely missed by our athletic department, by our university, and by our community. However, his legacy will live on, through his wife Margaret, and through those he touched. What a wonderful life he lived.
Quotes from UNM Coaches on the passing of Turner Branch
Bob Davie, Football Coach
“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Turner Branch. Turner was one of the very first people I met in Albuquerque and was a great personal friend not only to me and my family but our entire program. His commitment to and passion for the University of New Mexico was truly inspiring. He will always stand out as one of the most unique people I have ever met. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Margaret and his family. Turner will be missed but he will always be a part of our football program and this university.”
Craig Neal, Men’s Basketball Coach
“It is with a very heavy heart in learning today that we lost a Great Lobo but an even better man!! Turner Branch never played a down or a play for the Lobo’s but nobody bled Cherry and Silver like Turner! He was a fan, mentor, confidant and more importantly an amazing friend to me and my family!!
Our Basketball Family would like to send prayers and sympathy to his incredible wife Margaret and family. Turner and Margaret supported all programs and teams. They truly care about all our student-athletes and they did everything they could to support our student-athletes on and off the court or field of play!
His friendship and support never wavered. He was the ultimate loyal and loving friend!!! He will be forever missed and never forgotten!! Rest in peace Turner. Love always to you and Margaret.”
Paul Krebs, Vice President for Athletics
“Turner Branch was a unique and special individual. I loved that man. Nobody was more passionate about the Lobos than Turner. He was very competitive and wanted the Lobos to win in the worst way, but he always remained supportive, no matter the outcome. I always appreciated the fact that Turner wanted to know our coaches away from the playing fields, and their leadership styles.
He was a leader in the community and the State of New Mexico and was committed to UNM. He and Margaret have invested their money for the betterment of the University and the Athletic Program. He will be greatly missed by all of us in the Lobo Family.”
Jill Trujillo, Women’s Golf Coach
“Turner’s passion was Lobo athletics. He bled Cherry and Silver and supported UNM in many ways. But the heart of Turner Branch was with those who have no voice. His life work was to champion the less fortunate and fight for what is right. His dedicated spirit will be missed by our Lobo family, indeed.”
