Mary Louise Braden, 77, was born on September 3, 1948 to parents Robert Earl and Parthene Williams in Indianola, Mississippi. She departed this earthly life on April 29, 2026 at Swedish American Hospital in Rockford, Illinois.
Mary received her high school diploma from Rockford West High School. She went on to further her education at Rock Valley College where she received her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Because of her love for higher education she received a certificate from the Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois for her loyal and dedicated service to the University and its mission towards higher education.
Mary received Christ into her life at an early age. She was a founding member of Faith Walker Assemblies where she served faithfully in many capacities, one of them being he church financial secretary. Prior to branching off to Faith Assemblies she was a lifelong member of Providence Baptist Church in Rockford, Illinois.
Mary loved to spend time with her family and traveling.
Mary leaves behind her loving son, Brente Braden of Rockford, IL who took care of her; grandson, Jalen E Braden of Gwinnett, GA; sisters, Elder Barbara Williams of Rockford, IL and Gloria J Mannery of Lithonia, GA; brother, Adam Williams of Atlanta, GA; along with a host of nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Daryl L Braden I; son, Daryl L Braden II; brothers, James Rush, Robert E Williams, Melvin Williams (twin), and Samuel Williams; and sister, Sandra Williams.
The family of Mary Louise Braden would like to thank you for sharing in the home-going celebration of her life. We are so grateful for your presence, thoughtfulness, prayers, and kindness that has meant so much to our family.
A visitation for Mary will be held at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 North Alpine Road, Machesney Park, IL 61115, on May 8, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by the funeral at the same location at 2:00 pm. Mary will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
