Ann McManus Obituary

When I think of my Auntie Ann I am transported back in time and immediately ringing in my ears is that infectious laugh and a smile that would light up a room and then I take a step back and am in awe of what she accomplished in her life.
I can´t imagine when the world was a much bigger place that a young beautiful women would have the courage to leave her family and roots to forge a life in another country so far away.Her bravery to pursue her dreams and create a future for herself was truly inspiring and I was always very proud when talking to my friends about my aunt and what she was doing.
However what was more important and I hope will be part of her legacy was that she returned to her native Ireland regularly and because of that she left us all with wonderful memories of this unique, kind and loving person who won´t be forgotten.
Aunty Ann and her sister Agnes ( my mother) looked very alike and as a young boy I couldn´t believe that I could have had two mums in one room and always looked forward to hearing my aunt was coming to visit as she was full of great stories and memories of both her past and her new life.
Coming from her native Derry which was always known for its music and a warm welcome she was the embodiment of her city with the heart of an artist,sharing her love of the piano with that of her family and friends.
Having settled in California with Uncle Ray and their sons Paul and John has meant that although she has passed through to another life she has left this world with a great legacy and that part of the Gillen family tree will continue to blossom while she joins her siblings who went before her,Theresa,Agnes and John.
Although hearing of her passing was very sad it has renewed our relationship with our cousins and I hope going forward we will keep in touch and continue the Gillen story.
Rest in peace dear aunt.Your courage laughter and love will be deeply missed but never forgotten

I count myself incredibly fortunate that I had such a loving and supportive Aunt. My Auntie Anna was very much part of my childhood even though she lived thousands of miles away from Ireland. I so looked forward to her visits as did my brothers Tim and Ronan and her sister (My mum Agnes) and her brother in law, my dad Thomas. When she visited she would stay for a few weeks and brought liveliness, endless conversations and non stop fun. She really was the life and soul of the party and I just loved her stories and her endless pearls of wisdom. We would sit for long periods at the kitchen table and just talk and the hours would pass by in a instant. My mum and Auntie were close and looked so alike that you could mistake them for twins. They both played the piano and I used to be so impressed by their skills. They would often play duets on the big piano in our lounge and everyone would be in awe. They both inspired me to take up the piano and although I never reached their level of aptitude, it is an instrument that I still like to play to his day. As I reached my teenage years it was absolutely wonderful that my auntie Anna and her husband Ray continued to visit but now accompanied by their two sons Paul and John. They definitely inherited their mum's gift of chat and humour. We spent so many happy summers together in Ireland and it was just so wonderful having the magical extended family experience along with our cousins up the road in Derry. I am so grateful that I was able to talk to Auntie Anna on the phone earlier this year. The moment I heard her voice, I was transported back in time to my childhood. Despite being in her 90s her voice was strong and her mind alert. We reminisced for quite some time and her warmth and laughter was just like I had always remembered. I will miss her so much and to my Uncle Ray, my cousins Paul and John I pass on my heartfelt sympathy. Words are inadequate to express my emotions but I will carry with me the most beautiful memories. Paul Lundy

I did not have the pleasure of meeting Ann, but I imagine she was a bright and determined woman. I know she will be missed. Blessings to all who knew her.

I wish I had the pleasure of meeting this wonderful woman! I loved her passion for animals and music! She sounded like such a kind soul and loved by many. She was fortunate to live a long fulfilled life and have a beautiful family and many friends!

Anna, you were always that shining light that made the American dream so alive for the rest of us. As it turns out, that dream is simply nothing more, or less, than peace in our hearts. Your beautiful soul will be in the arms of God, this night. All our love, the Irish Dohertys xox

I was so sad to hear of the passing of Auntie Anna! I will forever remember her bright smile, her big hugs and her sense of fun. Sending my deepest condolences to uncle Ray, Paul and John.
From Anna (Agnes and Tom's grandaughter) x

Wishing I had had the opportunity to meet her! My condolences and sympathy to her husband and sons. May she rest in peace e!