Maryann Woolsey Preece

1936 - 2025

Maryann Preece, 88, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 12, 2025.

She was born on June 14, 1936, in Chesterfield, Idaho, to Ralph and Leola Woolsey. After living briefly in Oregon and California, her family settled in Pocatello, Idaho, where she remained until she met the love of her life.

Maryann married her lifelong partner of 55 years, Calvert F. Preece, on November 27, 1954. To celebrate their wedding, Calvert famously pushed her down Yellowstone Avenue in a wheelbarrow-a joyful memory they cherished throughout their marriage. The couple first lived in Grace, Idaho, before settling in Soda Springs, where they raised their two children, Roger and Gayle.

Maryann worked at Sanders Furniture, Western Auto, and later finished her career at Chadwick's (later Keith's Department Store), where she spoke fondly of her years working with her friends Clair and Evelyn Chadwick. Her time there combined two of her greatest passions: sewing and serving the community.

An exceptional seamstress, Maryann never turned down a request to fix, mend, or patch something-her dining room table always held a pile (or more) of garments and blankets waiting to be picked up. She also loved to crochet, embroider, and try any new craft that came her way.

Maryann enjoyed traveling and cherished summer camping trips at Blackfoot Reservoir with their dearest friends, Leonard and LaRae Rasmussen. Later in life, she and Calvert spent winters in Overton, Nevada, where she formed close friendships and made many memories.

She is survived by her two children: Roger Preece and Gayle (JR) Liechty, both of Soda Springs; four grandchildren: Brandon (Holly) Liechty of Hyrum, Utah, Amber Liechty of Salt Lake City, Utah, Dillon (Whitney) Liechty of Soda Springs, and Tiffany Wilde of Pocatello; and her loving-and sometimes crazy-seven great-grandchildren, whom she may have loved even more than her grandchildren: Bret Everding, Kory Liechty, Jay Liechty, Kai Liechty, Koa Liechty, Sydney Lindsey, and Stella Wilde.

She is also survived by her brother Gail Woolsey, sister Karen Taylor, brother Ranny Woolsey, and many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly and always kept track of.

Maryann was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Calvert, and her brother Glen Woolsey.

A graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. Viewing will be held prior to services at Sims Funeral Home from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m