Branford Heape Obituary

Branford Edward Heape, Jr. MT. PLEASANT - (September 1, 1940-August 28, 2017) He had a manner that was engaging, inquisitive, and adventurous. Just being in his presence was an occasion to be entertained, "schooled" on a variety of topics, and virtually transported to the faraway places where he worked. By the time he was in his mid-30s, his extensive travels had made him a citizen of the world rather than a resident of one particular place. There is no doubt that he approached his last journey, from earthly realm to that beyond, with great curiosity and readiness. Branford E. Heape, Jr. passed away peacefully on the night of August 28, 2017. Branford's early life was very southern and very traditional. Born in Baker Hospital, Charleston, SC, on September 1, 1940, he was the much-hoped-for first son of Branford E. Heape, Sr. and Agnes J. Heape. He joined older sister Jean in the family's home in the Wagener Terrace neighborhood, and within a few years became big brother to Danny and Susan. Branford attended public schools in Charleston, where his outgoing personality endeared him to his teachers as well as his peers. His social adroitness enabled him to interact with people of all ages and backgrounds. With a large yard and a salt marsh in which to play, Branford recruited a gang of boys to join him in creative, carefree adventures. The outdoor shower got a workout, because everyone was covered with pluff mud at the end of the day. In his teen years, Branford demonstrated leadership skills, notable athleticism, and a capacity for balancing work with healthy doses of play. He served as captain of the Isle of Palms lifeguards, was a news carrier for the Post and Courier, and the happiest shagger on dance floors from Beaufort to Myrtle Beach. He was a hard act to follow for his siblings, but he certainly paved the way with positive expectations. Branford attended the University of South Carolina for a couple of years, but was steadily drawn to the exciting events which were taking place on the world stage. With college friends, he took a trip to Cuba shortly before the communist take over. This trip would set the tone for the rest of his life, because he became mesmerized by aviation, traveling, and exploring world cultures. He joined the Air Force, where he received training as a load master. He excelled at this skill of making accurate judgments regarding the amount and the placement of cargo in aircraft, so that maximum loads could be transported safely and efficiently. After his tour of duty, Branford was hired by TransCaribbean Airways, a subsidiary of American Airlines, to establish TCA operations across the Caribbean region. His knowledge of aviation regulations and operations was greatly enhanced by this employment, and he recognized opportunities for establishing his own aviation business enterprises. By the early 1970s, he had founded and was operating McGuire Air Services from facilities near McGuire Air Force Base in NJ. His company coordinated the varied and comprehensive services needed by airplanes, ranging from mechanical repairs to catering and janitorial services. As a contractor with the US government and other entities, he also offered chartering and load master services in settings around the world. His travels took him frequently to the Middle East, Africa, and Greenland. Some of his more interesting deliveries include frozen earth core samples for meteorological research being conducted on climate change; armament and supplies for the first Gulf War; and a load of live horses being flown to China for food. Branford loved his work and saw it as a great adventure. He was able to respond effectively to whatever cultural, climatic, or logistical challenges that he encountered because of his unique skills and interpersonal intelligence. Branford retired and moved back to his beloved Lowcountry in 2005, adopted "Fred" the chocolate lab, and reconnected with old friends. Because of his career and travels, Branford could add to any discussion of political and world events with a perspective that often included first-hand observations. Although his active retirement years were cut short by disabling health issues, he never lost his keen interest in the world at large. He packed a lot of living into his 76 years. Branford is survived by his mother, Agnes J. Heape, and his sister, Susan E. Heape, both of Charleston. A memorial collation will be held at the parish hall of the French Huguenot Church, 44 Queen St., on September17, 2017, at 11:30 am. J. Henry Stuhr Funeral Home, downtown Charleston, SC chapel, is assisting the family with final arrangements. Visit our guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/ charleston