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…



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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.