Mary Helen Browning

Mary Helen (Bratton) Browning, age 74, teacher, private pilot, rancher and philanthropist passed away Wednesday, January 13, 2005 at St. David’s Hospital in Austin, after a brief illness. Mary Helen was born June 29, 1930 at St. David’s Hospital, Austin, to the late Archie Rex and Helen M. (Stullken) Bratton. She attended the Austin Public Schools, graduated from Austin High School and received her BBA from the University of Texas at Austin. She taught in the Cleveland I.S.D. and the Round Rock I.S.D. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Austin. Her love for flying was her future. As a private pilot, she met her future husband, Robert M. Browning, III. Mary Helen and Bobby were the last couple married in the old First Baptist Church at 10th and Colorado by Rev. Dr. William E. Denham. They were able to purchase stain glass windows from this church to incorporate into their own home. She loved antiques and historical sites. She was a major part of the Browning Aerial Service. She was the beloved sister of Archie Robert Bratton and John Bratton. Survivors also include her mother-in-law, Emma Browning, nieces and nephews; a special first cousin group that met monthly, along with many friends and colleagues. She was an active member of the Austin Woman’s Club, having served as Treasurer and presently a member of the House Committee; a member of the Wildflower Garden Club and her bridge groups were her favorite. She enjoyed sharing the produce from her garden with her friends, surprising many with fresh flowers and unique gifts. Mary Helen left her footprints of love wherever she was led by the Good Lord. Family visitation will be held on Monday, January 17th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, January 18th at Weed-Corley-Fish Chapel with Reverend Pat Glazener-Cooney, pastor of Crestview UMC officiating. The family is deeply appreciative to the medical staff of St. David’s Hospital and the Texas Oncology, P.A. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Memorials and guestbook online at wcfish.com