Lee Ann Braun

LEE ANN BRAUN (NEE RECTOR), age 70, went to be with her mother and father again on March 7, 2026. She made her departure surrounded by the love of her family, just twenty days before her 71st birthday.

Lee Ann was born in Chester to her loving parents, Don Rector and Charlene Whaley Rector, who had been waiting patiently for her return. She spent much of her life in Chester before moving to Red Bud three years ago to live beside her daughter, who lovingly cared for her during her final years.

On September 2, 1972, Lee Ann married the love of her life, Michael Braun. Together they shared nearly 54 years together, building a life centered around family, love and devotion to their children and grandchildren.

Lee Ann Dedicated 30 years of service to the Chester Community School District 139 as a custodian. She took pride in her work and was known for her strong work ethic, quiet dedication and caring nature. She worked hard throughout her life, always doing what she could to provided for and care for those she loved most.

Above all else, Lee Ann was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother (“Bamma”). She had a nurturing spirit and a way of making those around her feel safe and cared for. Her children remember that even when they were sick as kids, she somehow made it comforting because of how much love and attention she gave them. God truly molded her into a mother who set the bar for all. She had a gift for caring for others and always put her family first. Her acts of selflessness continued through the years. Even as she prepared for her departure, she ensured those she loved dearly knew how much they meant to her.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Braun; and her four children: David (Jennifer) Braun, Sara Courtney, Aaron (Kayla) Braun and Josephine (Jason) Loyd. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Ryan Braun, Braden Essary, Alicia Braun, Lane Braun, Clara Braun, Presley Braun, Jolee Braun, Luke Braun, Kelli Braun, Michelle Braun, Christian Braun, David Braun Jr., Alhana Hargraves, Trystan Hargraves and Abbigail Courtney. She was preceded in death by two grandsons, Clarence Braun and Aaron Braun Jr..

Though life was not always easy for Lee Ann, she faced it with strength and perseverance. She was an admiration to her children. Her greatest Joy was the family she loved so deeply and gave every last breath to.

In her final moments, she was surrounded by the love of her family – her husband, children, grandchildren and son-in-law – who were by her side as she peacefully made her way home again. They said their well wishes for her journey, and her daughter tucked her in one last time.

Lee Ann will be deeply missed, but the love she gave and the family she built will carry her memory forward for generations. A love like that will span a lifetime for them all.

“All the gifts God gave to me,

I would like to give to you,

but the greatest gift I cannot give,

because that gift is you.

Love, Mike”

A Celebration of Life Gathering will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm at Pechacek Funeral Homes, Red Bud, Illinois.

Memorials may be made to the Belleville Area Humane Society