Emory H. Stapleton, 77, of Branford, FL, passed away Friday, July 22, 2022, in the Shands at U of F Hospital, Gainesville after a brief illness. The Columbia County native lived most of his life in Branford. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Vietnam Era, a surveyor for the state of Florida, and a member of the Mt. Paran Baptist Church, Branford. Mr. Stapleton is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years: Rita Stapleton, Branford; Daughter: Dana Reynolds (John) Lake City; Son: Joey Stapleton ( Kristin) Branford; Grandchildren: Elijah Reynolds, EmmaLynn , ElleLeigh, and Kolton Stapleton; Also numerous nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon Wednesday, July 27, 2022, at Mt. Paran Baptist Church with Rev. David Severance and Rev. Randy Waters officiating. Interment will follow in the Maypop Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday morning at the church from 11:00 am until service time.