Mary Ruth Stevens Brockway passed away peacefully in Puyallup on August 8, 2026, at the age of 101. She was born on June 27, 1925, in Conway, Arkansas, to Emsley R. Stevens and Bessie L. Duran Stevens. In 1932, Mary’s family moved to Washington State, living on Maristone Island, in Port Ludlow, and in Skykomish before settling in Port Orchard, where she graduated in 1943 from South Kitsap High School in Port Orchard.

 After graduation, Mary moved to Seattle for nurses training. While training, she met William “Bill” Brockway, who was a patient at the hospital. They married in 1945 and shared 71 years together until Bill’s death in 2016. 

Mary and Bill moved to Renton, where they lived for more than 70 years. In addition to raising five children, Mary enjoyed gardening, canning, fundraising for Ryther, participating in the League of Women Voters, and engaging in other community activities. 

Mary always loved writing, had several stories published, and began writing in earnest after her children were grown. She was active in a writers’ group, and seven of her books were published. 

Mary and Bill traveled to every state and many countries. They loved to dance and often attended club dances.

Mary is predeceased by four siblings. She is survived by one sister, Hazel Burgett, and two brothers Emsley Henry Stevens, and Roderick Duran Stevens. Mary is survived by her five children William (Susan), Steven (Susan), Beverly, Curtis (Elaine), Bryce, thirteen grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday September 3rd, 2026, at the Renton United Methodist Church 2201 NE 4th Street Renton, WA. Reception following service at the church.