1930-2024
Mary Louise Branson, 93, daughter of Harold and Eva (Laughlin) Moraine, was born July 31, 1930, in Glendon. She passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the New Homestead, Guthrie Center.
Mary graduated from Guthrie Center High School. In 1948, she married Robert Wesley Branson at the Christian Church in Guthrie Center. They made their home in Guthrie Center for 35 years. Mary owned and operated Branson’s Beauti-Rama until they moved to Lake Panorama in 1983. In 2010, they became residents of the Lakeside Village in Panora until July of 2012 when they moved into the New Homestead. Bob passed away in November of 2012.
Mary enjoyed playing bridge, golfing, fishing, cooking, gambling, her love for her cat, Gracie, and, most of all, spending time with her family, especially wrestling with the grandchildren. Mary also was a collector of antiques (blue glassware especially), and while she was a resident of the New Homestead, she enjoyed watching the birds, playing bingo and having visitors.
She volunteered with the WSO and First Christian Church. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Guthrie Center and then the First Christian Church in Panora.
Mary is survived by her children, Kristi (Doug Hickman) Branson of San Diego, California, Barry (Vanessa) Branson of Panora, and Kathi (Dave) Sherby of Austin, Texas; four grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bob; two brothers; and a sister.
Cremation has taken place, and graveside services will be 11 a.m., Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Union Cemetery, Guthrie Center.
Memorials may be left to the New Homestead beauty shop for upgrading of the facilities and may be mailed to Branson’s, 5017 Panorama Drive, Panora, IA 50216.
Twigg Funeral Home, Panora, is entrusted with her services.