Mary Branson

Mary B. Branson passed away peacefully in her home, at the age of 97 on Oct. 9, 2014.

Mary was a lifetime resident of her beloved Walla Walla. She graduated from St. Vincent’s Academy in 1936. She attended Walla Walla Community College and graduated with an Associates Arts degree in June 2004. Education was extremely important to her and attending college late in life was one of her most satisfying and proudest accomplishments. Prior to becoming sick she was working on a bachelor’s degree while studying online through Washington State University.

Her family was very important to her, gathering frequently at reunions and keeping the tradition of being together during various holidays.

After her children started school she began a lifetime career in 1951, working as the chief real estate clerk for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. She retired after 45 years of dedicated service in July 1996. Mary married Donald Branson in January 1938. They lived and raised their two children in Walla Walla until Don’s early death in 1972. Mary was fortunate to reacquaint with William Lilwall and the two were married in November 1979. Mary and Bill enjoyed traveling, dancing and each other’s cooking. Even in her later years, Mary was extremely active always looking forward to dining out and Friday night dancing with her partner, Melvin Buttice, at the VFW.

Mary is survived by her children, Donna Ahern (Earl), Gene Branson; three grandchildren, Paula Bryant, Barbra Allen (J.D.) and James Branson (Christy); and five great-grandchildren.

Viewing and visitation will be held on Monday, Oct. 20, 2014, from 3 p.m. until after the Rosary at the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla. Rosary will be recited on Monday, Oct. 20, 2014, at 6 p.m., also at the funeral home. Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2014, at 1 p.m. at Assumption Catholic Church with Father David Gaines, Officiant. Memorial contributions may be made to Walla Walla Catholic Schools or the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation through the funeral home.