Mary Ann (Forren) Braunstein

Mary Ann (Forren) Braunstein, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, cousin and dear friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 13, 2026 at the age of 83.

Mary Ann was born Dec. 21, 1942, in Oceana, WV to the late Harry Forren and Gertrude (Simmons) Forren. She is survived by her loving husband, Paul of 53 years, son Steve, granddaughter Megan, brother Roy Forren, sister Yvonne Wilson and a host of nieces and nephews.

She grew up in WV the child of hardworking parents. Her father was a coal miner and her mother supported the family by grocery clerking. Mary Ann was tasked with taking care of her siblings while her parents worked to provide for their family.

Upon graduation from Mullens High School Class of 1960, she traveled to Washington D.C. to work and ultimately became an Executive Assistant for Navy Officers. She worked at the Pentagon and later the Watergate Complex for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, where she became the Office Manager, a position which she considered the crowning point of her working life.

Mary Ann and Paul moved to Murrells Inlet, SC upon his retirement where Mary Ann continued her love of animals and people. She baked dog treats for the neighborhood dogs and never missed an opportunity to greet neighbors when walking. She also volunteered at the Waccamaw Library as she had done at the Reston Branch of the Fairfax Virginia Library for many years, supporting branches in any position requiring her gifts.

Her beautiful spirit, both inside and out, will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her memory be eternal.

A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, March 21, at Otsego Bible Chapel, Mullens (Otsego), WV.

We will share memories, stories, music and a slide show to honor Mary Ann. Please join us afterwards for a catered meal in the fellowship hall.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.