Ann Davis, 86, of Plymouth, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones and comforted by hymns. It was a sunny spring day—the kind of day she would have chosen herself.
Born on April 3, 1939, Ann is survived by her husband of 66 years, Jim; three daughters, Lisa (Brent), Leslie (Keith), and Laura (Bill); four granddaughters, three great-granddaughters, and one great-grandson. She is also survived by her twin sister, Jane, and her younger sister, Carolyn. Ann was lucky enough to have bonus daughters—Lisa, Cinthia, and Stephanie—and three bonus grandchildren as well.
Ann’s story began on a farm in Southern Illinois, where she was born at home—surprising everyone by showing up after her twin, Jane. She grew up in the 1940s and 50s on struggling farmland, learning the true meaning of hard work and resilience. Life came with ration stamps, hand-me-downs, and no electricity or running water. She milked cows, helped birth pigs, and wrangled sheep and goats. She attended a one-room schoolhouse, which provided her with more grit than most college degrees today.
After high school, Ann went to work for the Army, where fate intervened via a blind double date. She didn’t hit it off with her own date—but she did with her friend’s date, Jim. The rest is history. According to family lore, Jim sent her engagement ring through the mail. When he called on Valentine’s Day to ask if she’d received her gift, she hadn’t. And just like that, the cat was out of the bag.
Perhaps because she once had to leave all her cherished belongings behind during a move, Ann became a collector. She knew that objects could hold memories and history. Her favorite treasures were always both beautiful and practical—and now, she leaves behind a trove. If you're hoping for something you can't find anywhere else, Ann would love to share. Please wait a respectful amount of time before submitting your request to her daughters. Tomorrow will be fine.
Ann was incredibly smart, with a gift for learning new things and a drive to share her knowledge to help others. Whether it was pitching in for a neighbor, helping someone in need, or lending money with a flexible repayment plan, Ann was generous to the core.
She also held the gold medal in stubbornness. Ann outlived her initial 2–6-month prognosis not once, not twice, but three times. Even in her final hours, she stayed an extra hour—probably just to prove she could. Her fierce determination and grit were passed down to her daughters, whether they like it or not. (The jury is still out on whether this is a blessing or a curse.)
Ann's name may not appear in history books or on any grand building, but her impact is indelible. She was the knot that held together many strings. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Heart to Heart Hospice and Ann and Jim’s Sunday School class for their kindness and support during this time.
Memorial contributions may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice and Bread of Life Ministry.
A memorial service will be held for Ann, Saturday May 17, 2025, beginning 11:00 A.M at Plymouth Wesleyan Church.
