Mary Gayle Stepper

Mary Gayle Stepper (Williams) passed away September 13, 2026, at the age of 91 years. Mary was born June 8, 1935, in Big Pond, Oklahoma, to Rolan and Blanche Williams. She had three siblings: Jerry, Carole, and Jack. Her family moved to Folsom, California, at a young age, and she spent her childhood there.

She married Max Stepper, an airman serving Mather Air Force Base, on October 2, 1952. The had three children: Michael, Michele, and Mark. Michele married Wayne Grothe, who she always considered her third son.

Mary Gayle was a homemaker and was a devoted mother to her daughter and sons. She also worked at the school kitchen while stationed in Alaska and demonstrated Oster products while in Spokane.

Mary was a resident of Spokane for the past 56 years. She enjoyed playing cards, reading books, and watching the Gonzaga Bulldogs mens basketball games with her special friend, Bill Grimes. She was known for her beautiful, hand-crafted quilts and sewing abilities.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Max Stepper (11/16/2007) and her daughter, Michele Grothe (3/17/2009). She was also preceded in death by her parents, Rolan and Blanche Williams; her brothers, Jerry and Jack; and her sister, Carole. Mary Gayle was a much-loved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a dear friend to many. She has 8 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

A memorial service will be held in her honor at Thornhill Valley Chapel on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 2:00pm.