Irina K. Branson

Tega Cay, SC- Mrs. Irina K. Branson, 47, peacefully passed away Monday, July 1, 2024, in Pineville, NC, following a brave fight with extended period of illness.

Born on September 24, 1976, Irina was the beloved daughter of Nicolay Kontorshchikov and his wife Lidiia. Irina was born in Kurovskow, Russia (Moscow Region, USSR) and came to the USA when she was 15 to receive her high school education with a host family in Virginia. After high school, Irina stayed in the US under a student visa and attended James Madison University where she completed her education in Quantitative Finance. Irina was immensely proud of her American Citizenship which she obtained September 2012, she loved celebrating Independence Day as her favorite holiday. While it was difficult to be apart from her family in Rusia, Irina truly appreciated the gift her family gave her to be able to come to the US. Irina reminded us all how lucky we were to be born in the US and to appreciate the freedoms we have.

Irina had a successful career as a quantitative financial analyst. She spent her entire career with one firm, beginning with First Union which later became Wachovia, and currently known as Wells Fargo.

She was a wonderful wife, mother, and provider. She fiercely protected her family lovingly known as “The Bransons Party of 5”

Irina was an avid reader. She loved adventure. The destination didn’t matter, it was about the journey and who she shared it with. The true joy in her life came from her children, Alexander, Michael ,and Elizabeth (Lucy).

She shared her love of working with clay, crafting, and flowers with Lucy. She also loved to watch Lucy hit the ball.

She also shared her love for music with Alex and Michael. She loved to hear them play and watch them perform, whether it was a concert or a marching competition. She loved being a “band mom”, spending time with family and friends, cruising the Caribbean, or just a boat ride on the lake always brought her happiness.

Irina was a prankster and a bit of a thrill seeker. She wasn’t afraid to jump off a building or zipline when given the opportunity. She lived life to the fullest and was immensely proud of the life she and her loving wife Robin had created with their children. She was the bravest of brave.

Irina and Robin were together 19 years and were married April 14, 2014. Her love for Robin was immense. Robin was the love of her life.

Irina is survived by her loving wife, Robin Branson, and their three children, Alexader, Michael, and Elizabeth (Lucy) Branson- all of the home. She also leaves behind her cherished brother, Dimitri Kontoishchikov, and her parents, Nikolay and Lidiia Kontorshchikov who reside in Russia.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 14, 2024 at 2:00PM at Palmetto Funeral Home for family to receive friends and celebrate her life and legacy together.

In lieu of flowers, donations to support the children’s education expenses and are acceptable. Venmo Robin Branson @Robin-Branson-1

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