Dolores Braswell

Dolores “Dee” Braswell (nee Wolbert), passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, December 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Dee was born on September 20, 1935 in Highland, Illinois, to Raymond and Esther Wolbert.

Dee lived a long and beautiful life grounded in faith, family, and the values of kindness and generosity.

A devoted member of the Highland community, Dee spent her career as an Administrative Assistant working for Highland Community Schools, where she served with dedication and warmth. She was known for her friendly smile, her steady presence, and her ability to make staff feel welcome and cared for. Her work left a lasting impression on many, and she carried immense pride in the 52 years she devoted to the school district.

Dee cherished time with her late husband, with whom she shared a deep love for traveling to Lake of the Ozarks. Those trips became some of their most treasured memories – filled with scenic drives, peaceful lakeside moments, and the joy that came from simply being together in a place they both loved.

Her greatest joy in life came from her family. Dee deeply cherished her children – Debra Avila of Trinity, Florida, Greg Braswell of Bella Vista, Arkansas, and Teri Mustain of Highland, Illinois. She found immense happiness in the seasons she spent living with Debra in Florida, enjoying sunshine, warm breezes, and daily companionship. She equally treasured the time she spent with Greg in Texas, appreciating the new surroundings, conversations, and the closeness that came with sharing everyday life. Her life came full circle when she returned to Highland, where she was near Teri’s family. Spending time with her lifelong friends, Charlie and Marlene Rushing, also brought her tremendous joy.

Among her greatest blessings were her 23 grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored. She delighted in their stories, their laughter, and their accomplishments. Her eyes sparkled whenever she spoke about them, and she embraced her role as grandmother and great-grandmother (GG) with immense pride and love.

Dee is survived by her brother, Richard Wolbert, and loving children: Debra (Jesus) Avila, Greg (Lisa) Braswell, and Teri (Mark) Mustain; her 9 grandchildren; and her 14 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her late husband, Richard C. Braswell.

Funeral arrangements are being made by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Monday, December 15, 2025, with the Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 AM on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland, IL, with Pastor William (Bill) Kapp officiating the ceremony. Interment will be at the Highland City Cemetery.

In place of flowers, the family requests that you consider making a memorial donation to the Highland Community Schools Angel Fund or Highland Community School District Foundation.