Mary Wanlass Hiett, age 71, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026, in Etna, California, following a short and courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by love and faith at the close of a life defined by devotion to God, family, and music.
Mary was born on July 7, 1954, in Shelley, Idaho, to Leslie and Rayola Wanlass. Her childhood was marked by rich and varied experiences, as she grew up in several places around the world, including New Zealand; Huntington Beach, California; Toquerville, Utah; and Idaho Falls, Idaho. These experiences shaped her steady character, deep appreciation for people, and lifelong sense of purpose.
Mary devoted her life to her family as the mother of ten children, a role she embraced wholeheartedly. She found great joy in being at home raising her children and nurturing a household rooted in love, faith, and firm values. Music was another central thread of Mary’s life. A gifted pianist, she taught piano lessons for most of her adult years, blessing countless students with both musical skill and quiet encouragement. Later in life, she began composing and publishing her own music and produced multiple albums of her original compilations—a lasting expression of her creativity and testimony.
One Comment
This is a beautiful obituary. Mary was my piano teacher for many years. Weekly lessons with her were a welcome escape from a quite chaotic home life. Her warmth and kindness made me feel like I mattered. Music continues to be a healing force in my life and I have Mary to thank for it.