Authorities Seek Families of Two Men Who Died Recently in Jefferson County

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The Jefferson County Coroner's Office is asking for the public's help in finding the families of two men who recently passed away in the county. William Keith Brannon, 58, died on February 24th while visiting a neighbor's home, and Howard Ernst Edinger III, 71, died on March 2nd at a local hospital after experiencing a medical incident while driving. The coroner's office has been unable to locate the next of kin for either man and is asking any family members to come forward.

Why it matters

Locating the families of the deceased is an important step in the coroner's process to ensure the proper handling and burial of the remains. Without known next of kin, the coroner's office must take additional steps to identify and notify any potential family members, which can delay the final arrangements.

The details

William Keith Brannon died on February 24th while visiting a neighbor's home in Tarrant. The cause of his death is pending laboratory studies. Brannon's late parents were William Charles Brannon III and Sue Brannon, and he may have a brother named Thomas Brannon living in the Montgomery area. Howard Ernst Edinger III died on March 2nd at UAB-St. Vincent's East Hospital after experiencing a medical incident while driving and striking a utility pole. Edinger died of natural causes and did not sustain any trauma from the wreck.

• Brannon died on February 24, 2026.
• Edinger died on March 2, 2026.

What’s next

The Jefferson County Coroner's Office is asking any family members of William Keith Brannon or Howard Ernst Edinger III to contact them at 205-930-3603.