Mary Abigail Broadwell, of Fargo, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the beloved wife of Keith Broadwell and a devoted mother, grandmother, teacher, musician, and friend.

Born and raised in Fargo, Mary was the daughter of Earl Jennings and Betty (Bickert) Jennings. She carried a deep connection to her community throughout her life. She attended Concordia College, where she earned a degree in Music and developed the passion for music that remained an important part of her life. A skilled violinist, she participated with great pride in the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony.

Her love of music led her to a career in education. She began her teaching career teaching orchestra before transitioning to English. She truly loved being a teacher, and the impact she had on her students is boundless. She had a remarkable ability to meet people where they were, to understand them without judgment, and to encourage them to become the very best versions of themselves. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, and the lessons she taught through both her words and her example will continue through the many lives she touched.

She approached life with dedication and purpose, but she also understood the importance of finding joy in its simplest moments. She enjoyed dancing, listening to music (especially Peter Paul and Mary), spending time with family, and making the most of each day. She was an avid gardener, tending her garden with the same care and commitment she brought to everything she loved. Her dedication to her garden was such that she once left a Fourth of July celebration early-not because she had somewhere else she needed to be, but because the beans were ready to be harvested.

Above all, Mary was accepting, supportive, and deeply caring. She had a gift for making people feel seen and valued. She could meet you exactly where you were, offer encouragement when you needed it, and help you find your way forward. Her life was a testament to living with intention while never losing sight of the beauty and joy found in ordinary days.

She will be deeply missed by her husband, Keith Broadwell; her children, David (Rhonda) Broadwell and Christina Broadwell; and her grandchildren, Mya Broadwell and Mitchell Broadwell. She also leaves behind countless former students, friends, colleagues, fellow musicians, and family members whose lives were made better by knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Betty Jennings; her sister, Betsy Oliphant; and her brother, Tom Jennings.

She leaves us with the enduring gift of knowing that a meaningful life can be built through both purpose and joy: by giving generously to others, doing what you love, and appreciating each day for what it offers.