Sunday, December 5, 2021
How do I share just one memory of the woman who gave me my best friend? Ann was a deep, authentic, compassionate, loving, faith-filled woman who sacrificed quietly and often for her family and friends. I was the beneficiary of that several times at key changes in my life, and I will never forget the dedication she had to helping and lifting. Ann suffered great losses in her life and always turned to God, showing me the immense power of surrender and prayer. Her children and grandchildren lit up her life and always brought real and meaningful conversation. My favorite times with Ann were at the side of Colleen, sharing not only hardships and faith, but laughter. There was an inner light in Ann that radiated when she shared and that grin and knowing smile coupled with her nods and mm mmms, did something to me as I got to know her better and spend time with her more. Leaving the area for my husband’s job was tough, and I always appreciated Ann keeping in touch. David completed her and brought her much happiness and a strong and holy husband with his steady hand and sincere devotion. I will miss it all. And I will miss my conversations with Colleen updating me on Ann and all she was reading and doing. With her passing, we have lost a pillar. I will pray for David, Colleen, Chrissy, Tim, Elizabeth and all and take comfort that Ann is with the Jesus she literally lived for, through, and with. I’m sure that Cassie was there and helped Ann just as Ann had helped her cross over and that the Heavens are rejoicing because another warrior has returned from the journey. We will live with the grief, thankful for the waves of it, as the price of deep love is deep grief. Lord Jesus, help us though..... help us carry that hard. Rest In peace dear Ann for you deserve it. May your holy send off remind others of your goodness and in typical Ann fashion show the way to walk holy and humbly with our God all the way through this life so we can have a holy send off to Him in the next too. Well done good and faithful servant and thank you for sharing your authentic and lovely self. I hope the hard of life is gone and that grin I loved ever present now. Deepest sympathy to all, most especially my dear friend Colleen. I love you and walk with you even though I don’t live around the corner. - Sarah
