Friends, neighbors and community leaders gathered at the Anza Community Hall Friday, Aug. 21 for an evening honoring the life and legacy of Mary Ann “Annie” Ashby, a longtime and dedicated Anza volunteer who passed away April 23 at age 83.
Presented by the Anza Thimble Club, the gathering offered those who knew Annie an opportunity to share memories, stories and a little time together in her honor. Joan Kessman of the Thimble Club guided the evening, encouraging attendees to speak about their experiences and memories of Annie.
The room was filled with friends and well-wishers, with many standing to share stories of a woman whose years of service made her a familiar and much-loved presence throughout the community. Desserts and coffee were served as people visited and remembered Annie.
Annie was an active member of the Anza Thimble Club for many years, including serving as president. She helped organize food for the club’s Victorian Tea, prepared community meals and served as a longtime poll worker.
Her volunteer work was seemingly tireless. Annie could often be found supporting community events and organizations, including Anza Days pancake breakfasts, Anza Electric Cooperative annual meetings, Veterans of Foreign Wars dinners, Sacred Heart Catholic Church’s Food for the Faithful program and graduations. She was also involved with the Anza Citizens Patrol and numerous behind-the-scenes efforts that helped keep community activities moving.
A Memory Book was created in honor of Annie’s life and legacy. Filled with memories, stories and photographs, the book will be displayed in the Anza Thimble Club room at the Hamilton Museum, providing a lasting tribute to a woman whose life was deeply intertwined with the community she loved.
In a letter read at the gathering, Christi James – who was unable to attend – recalled meeting Annie through her help with From the Heart Christian Women’s Ministries.
“She was straightforward, no nonsense, right to the point, and I loved her,” James wrote, describing Annie as someone who seemed to be everywhere in the community, helping wherever she was needed.
“Annie was this community – she held us together,” James penned. “She kept us going as Anza’s matriarch.”
James ended her remembrance with a challenge to those who knew Annie: “Let’s honor her by continuing to do as she would do. Let’s do it for Annie.”
For the many people who gathered at the Community Hall, the evening was more than a remembrance. It was a reflection of the lasting impact Annie Ashby made through years of dedication, generosity and service. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories and community spirit she helped nurture will continue.
Diane Sieker can be reached by email at dsieker@reedermedia.com.
