Mary VanVelzer

Mary B. VanVelzer left this earth to be with her heavenly father and family members, at the age of 88 on April 28, 2022. Mary was born on March 17, 1934 in Livonia, Missouri the daughter of Virgil and Eva (Reeves) Branscomb. Mary loved being outdoors tending to her flowers. Quilting and reading were some of her pastimes. She loved animals and cared for them like her children. Mary married Everett VanVelzer on October 20, 1949 in Missouri and lived in that area until the mid 50’s. Moving to Rockford, IL and then settling in Byron, IL for 50 years before moving to Oregon in later years.  Mary is survived by her daughters, Sharon (David) Wallace of Oregon, IL and Patty Mears of Dayton, TN, Grandchildren Garnie Stevens, III, Renae Stevens, Amy Aluli, Amanda Minerd, Daniel Graybeal, Angela Barrington, Kassey Bullock, Ferrall Dotson, Sandra Beach, Steven Beach, Kevin Beach, Brad Beach, Carrie Rhodes, Travis Rhodes and Nichol Rhodes; step-grandchildren Kellie Gardner, Vickie DiPrima, and Daniel Wallace, and many great grandchildren.  Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Everett VanVelzer, daughter Linda Harvey, parents Virgil and Eva Branscomb, two brothers Donald and Charles Branscomb, and three sisters Cora Smith, Inez Fowler, and Dorothy Hiding. A private graveside service and burial will be held at Byron Cemetery with the Pastor David Rogula officiating.