Ann Gregson
1940-2021
Cherished wife of Bram
(2018), the love of her life for more than 60 years; precious mom to
daughter Jane (Dean) Miskokomon, son Neil (Kristi Nicholl) and
endearing Granann to Jarrett and Rocco.
Ann, born in
Ceylon (Sri Lanka) 1940, the daughter of Salvation Army missionaries
Hilda and Bill Santus, naturally developed perseverance and strength,
two of her greatest qualities, after losing her father at age 2 and
watching her mother valiantly raise her and brother Brian alone for
the next 14 years. Eternally cheerful, optimistic, courageous and
brave, she faced any adversity in life, even her many health
challenges over the years, with a determined stoicism. Ann never
complained, but having always been independent, these last years of
dependence coupled with enduring much discomfort and pain, certainly
took their toll at least on her body. But even in her last days, with
a stiff upper lip, her unwavering motto remained, “I’ve just got
to get on with it, haven’t I”.
At the age of
16, Ann could not have been more thrilled to gain a new stepfather,
Arthur Hughes, such an influential man in her life. He stuck up for
her and taught her to do the same. Ann was friendly, yet feisty and
determined too. Though she internalized a lot and would typically not
rock the boat, Ann could give it as good as she got. She also had this
subtle way of making others see how their unwelcome attitude may be
affecting others negatively. If someone was gruff, she’d simply say,
“Are you having a bad day?”, which more often than
not, would create a shift in tone.
Living and
travelling in many countries over her lifetime, Ann’s vast experiences
in other cultures filled her with many fascinating stories. Folks were
often rendered speechless as she described her startling
close encounters with wildlife in the tropics! Fascinated by all
aspects of nature, Ann loved plants and flowers which certainly
influenced her career choices. A trained florist in England, she took
great pride in being a part of a team creating dozens of arrangements
showcased at functions for the Queen of England. After emigrating to
Canada with Bram in 1964, Ann delighted in designing and selling her
own creations; bridal bouquets, wedding decor, and stunning Christmas
decor throughout the years. In the 70’s, she and a treasured friend,
founded Fancy Plants, hosting plant sales, and caring for greenery in
corporations and office buildings. She was conscientious and
always went the extra mile in everything she did. Ann cherished any
animal big or small. Others would swat or kill any household intruder,
but not Ann; she’d gently grasp or capture the creature and carefully
place it outside. She especially loved dogs and birds; and as of late,
was highly amused by the constant flurry of activity of birds and
squirrels at her ‘bird convention centre’.
Having moved often, one
of Ann’s greatest joys in life came from meeting, knowing and
befriending others. She firmly believed that each person, no matter
their origin, colour of skin or ‘place’ in life, should be seen, heard
and valued for their uniqueness. Ann could talk to anyone, any time
and never run out of things to discuss, making each person feel
special. She loved to laugh and encourage others to smile too.
Answering the standard inquiry, “How are you Ann?”, her
inevitable response, earning a chuckle every time, was “I’m
trying to be good, but that’s not much fun is
it!”
Caring deeply
for others, especially her family, Annie, as Bram used to call her,
was selfless, immeasurably supportive and helpful, caring and kind;
the first to volunteer and assist others where possible. She never
stood in someone’s way nor criticized, only encouraged and searched
for the positives in life. These fine qualities lead Ann to both
volunteer and work in the Salvation Army Victim Witness program, and
provide support to women in need through
Women’s Community House.
Though always
underestimating her limitless creativity and immense talents for
making something out of nothing, bringing joy to others was most
important, even in the smallest of ways. Inventive and fun, Granann
would turn everyday objects into indoor olympics; obstacles courses,
forts and host toilet paper roll wars galore. Whether wrapping gifts,
decorating the family home or church, sewing clothes or coordinating
her stylish outfits, Ann coloured the world with
beauty.
Our precious
Grannie Annie has forever filled our hearts with love and gratitude
for the immeasurable ways she positively impacted and brightened our
lives. Though her incessant warmth and sparkle will forever be missed
and never forgotten, we have certainly gained one fine guardian angel
and cheerleader continuing to guide, strengthen, protect and encourage
us always.
Ann’s wishes
were to have her ashes joined with Bram’s on the shores of Lake Huron
in a small intimate gathering, a tree planted beside his at the
cottage, along with a bird bath and feeders to forever entertain her
fine feathered friends. In keeping with her legacy of giving, please
consider donating to Women’s Community House (Anova) in lieu of
flowers.
Logan Funeral Home,
(519) 433-6181 entrusted with arrangements.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Ann Gregson 19402021..
Death notice for the town of: London, Province: Ontario