Mary Joanne Billman Nault passed away Saturday, June 10, 2023, at the age of 86. Her own person, Mary was also a wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother; Mary loved and was loved by many.

Mary was born to Claude and Laura Layng Billman on June 28, 1936. Mary was adored by her extended family. Her mother, Laura said that she "was the pride and joy of all the family" and Mary "felt loved to bits by every one of them, as well as by my parents and my maternal grandmother." However, it should be noted that she was accused of being a mischievous and sassy child by her tormented older siblings, but "with four older brothers, I just learned to be quick with the answers". She had a close bond with her older sister, Peggy, one that could not be shaken even by a bedroom lock on Peggy's door. Mary had a partner in fun with her younger brother, Gary and together they were inseparable and prone to pranks.

Mary was raised in Bruno, MN on the family farm, and graduated from Proctor High School in 1954. Norman and Mary were married on March 12, 1955 and began their long lives together.

Mary and Norm raised their three daughters in Grand Rapids, MN and later in life enjoyed the warmer weather in Mesa, AZ.  A gifted writer, Mary wrote for the Herald Review for 13 years, covering community events, social highlights, and human-interest stories. She and Norman co-owned Naults Jewelry and Gifts before retiring.

Mary loved her family and friends deeply and had a special love for her niece, Jane who was born on her fourteenth birthday.  Mary built traditions that always involved family and was known for showing her love through food. Many grandchildren can attest that her molasses cookies and chocolate cakes were the best! Mary cared deeply for her faith and filled her home with music and celebrations. She loved parties and surprises, but couldn't be trusted around unopened packages as some mischievous children grow up to be mischievous adults. She was a water fight master, dominating both on lawns and in kitchens (before Norman put a stop to indoor water fights, that is).

Mary is preceded in death by her husband Norman Nault, her infant son, Roderick, and siblings.  Mary is survived by daughters, Laurie Bailey-Lane (Ron Lane) of Cohasset, MN,  Connie Hunt of Buffalo, MN, and Sally Nault-Maurer (Dave Maurer) of Cambridge, MN; grandchildren, Luke Bailey (Allison), Quinn Kostka Glessing and Kyle Kostka (Melissa), Robin Maurer (Grace), Benjamin Nault (Jess), Elizabeth and Rachel Nault-Maurer; great grandchildren, Regan, Garret, Norman, and Kenny; brother, Gary Billman (Marge) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to the family of Mike and Carolyn Leibe for their friendship over the years. Mary's family will forever be grateful for the compassionate care provided by the staff at River Grand Senior Living. Mary received consistent support and love during her years there. Thank you also to Essentia Hospice. Their support made a positive difference over the last few months of Mary's life.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, July 10, 2023 at First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Grand Rapids with a gathering of family and friends an hour prior to the service. Rev. Dr. Patrick Lovejoy will officiate. In lieu of flowers Mary requested donations to First Lutheran Evangelical Church of Grand Rapids MN.