Ann Sherman

The early 1940s found the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan to be a bustling and thriving riverfront city, even in the midst of World War II. It was through these changing times that Henry and Margaret (Libby) Phillips celebrated the birth of a little girl they lovingly named Gertrude Ann, born on May 26, 1942.

From early on, Gertrude was referred to as Ann. She grew up on the southeast side of town near Cherry Street, and enjoyed a childhood of friends while attending the local schools. Her father was a roofer while her mother did housekeeping and janitorial work for GVSU. A very smart girl, Ann excelled in her studies and especially liked history. She went on to graduate from Rogers High School with the Class of 1959.

Before long Ann met and married a young man and their union blessed her with two children. Her daughter Tracy was born in 1962, and her son, Thomas, followed in 1963.

Although her marriage ended in divorce, Ann worked hard as a single mother. Even though it was often a struggle, her children meant everything to her.

Just when it seemed as if love passed her by, Ann met Richard Sherman. Recently out of the Army, Ann and Richard hit it off right from the start. He took her to a drive-in for their first date in 1968 and were married a year later in a small, intimate wedding ceremony. There was no honeymoon on the agenda for the two except tending to Ann’s son Thomas who had recently been hit by a car. Although he was okay, it made for a very memorable time!

Ann and Richard took many trips to Las Vegas over the years where they tried their luck at the casinos playing video poker. They enjoyed their time together there which made for memorable times. With a tremendous love for antiques, Ann loved spending time searching for antiques, walking around flea markets and going to garage sales. Ann treasured her collection of cookie jars. Each one held special meaning to her, or reminded her of a great bargain she got at a flea market or garage sale.

With an appreciation for all music types, Ann literally had her radio on 24 hours a day. She found joy gardening and loved spending time in their pool relaxing while enjoying a good Captain Morgan. Christmas and Halloween were her favorite holidays. She and Richard hosted many Halloween parties over the years where great times were shared. Ann was a great friend. Well liked and loved, she enjoyed many friendships throughout her life. It seemed as if she were best friends with everyone. Most important to Ann was spending time with her family, especially her grandkids. She loved talking to them on the phone and always sent them presents.

For 25 years Ann was a dedicated employee at Meijers where she worked as a payroll clerk. However, life changed dramatically for Ann in 2007 when she woke up one morning to discover she was blind. It was a grim reality for her, and the reason was never resolved. She and Richard made the best of the circumstances and made necessary adjustments as needed. Richard was a big support to Ann and he took on much of the responsibilities at home. She liked a good meal, and it didn’t matter what he cooked, Ann was grateful, even if it was hot dogs.

After a brief illness, Ann sadly died on Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at the age of 68. Her ashes have been lovingly placed in her favorite cookie jar, and she wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

She is survived by Richard, her husband of 39 years; children: Tracy (Mark) Betts and Thomas Gray; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. It was Ann’s request to be cremated and no services held. Contributions in her memory may be made to Mary Free Bed Hospital or to the American Cancer Society. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to leave a memory or to sign her online guest book.