Mary J. Branca

Herrin- Mary J. Branca, 84, of Herrin, passed away at 4:20 AM, Monday, May 19, 2008 at Herrin Hospital. Mary was born on November 20, 1923 in St. Louis, MO to Sam & Angeline (Pagano) Russo. She married John G. Branca on April 30, 1949 in Herrin. He preceded her in death on May 21, 2001. Mrs. Branca was a homemaker and cared for her family. She retired from Norge in Herrin after working thirteen years. She was a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Herrin. Survivors include- Son & daughter in law- John & Nancy Branca, Jr. of Tuscola Daughter & son in law- Drs. Rita & Robert Leahy of Sacramento, CA Daughter & son in law- Christine & Bill Mattingly of Herrin Grandchild- Scott Branca & wife Susan of Tuscola Grandchild- Allison Branca of Tuscola Grandchild- Jiliane & husband Matt Johnson of Galesburg Grandchild- Joseph Mattingly & fianc Tara Johnson of Energy Grandchild- Jonathan Mattingly & fianc Patrice King of Carterville Grandchild- Daniel Mattingly of Carterville Great Grandchild- Hunter Branca of Tuscola Great Grandchild- Ava Johnson of Galesburg Great Grandchild- Marques Mattingly of Carterville Great Grandchild- James Mattingly of Energy Sister in law- Angeline Bergin of Herrin Several nieces & nephews The excellent caregivers and staff of Whispering Oaks: Rhonda Chartier Mele Hudson Vivian Stewart Stephanie MoCilan Katie Shadowens Betty Edwards Becky Richard She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister- Frances Schaubert and special cousin- Aida Pagano. The funeral mass will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Herrin. Monsignor Ken Schaefer will officiate. Burial will follow at San Carlo Cemetery in Herrin. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until time of service Wednesday at the church. Funeral arrangements were made at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Memorial donations are suggested to the San Carlo Cemetery Fund, Herrin City Library, or the OLMC/ Education Fund and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home/ 201 S. 13th St./ Herrin, IL 62948.