Ettie Mae was born to Link and Fussy Brafford in Pine Ridge, SD on August 22, 1939. She grew up on a ranch south of Interior, SD. She enjoyed helping her dad and brother, Harold with the ranch work.
She married Elijah Whirlwind Horse. They lived in Texas while Elijah was in the Air Force, then Spearfish while Elijah was in college. And, many years in Wanblee before moving to the ranch south of Interior in 1978. Mae was a homemaker and stay at home mom. She became a full-time rancher in January 1982 until her death. Eleven children were born to Elijah and Mae, all were loved so much.
Mae is survived by her children, Judy, Carmen (Sam), Jonnie (Monica), Lisa (Allen), Mia, Lia, and Merti; 11 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.
Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Elijah; parents, Link and Fussy; son, Kevin; daughters, Diana, Sally Ann, and Wilma; and grandsons, Clay, Robert, and Alan.
Mae’s legacy is her love for her family.
Pallbearer will be Lincoln Whirlwind Horse.
In lieu of flowers, the family of Mae requests donations to cancer research.
Rosary Services: 6:00 PM, Friday, November 1, 2024 at the Interior Fire Hall, Interior, SD.
Funeral Services: 11:00 AM, Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the Interior Fire Hall, Interior, SD
Officiating: Deacon Calvin Clifford
Burial Services: Private family service will be held
Arrangements entrusted with the Sioux Funeral Home of Pine Ridge, SD.