Mary Ann Ashcroft

Mary Ann Ashcroft, 68, of Paso Robles, died Thursday, September 23, 2010, at her home. Born in July 1942 in Orange, N.J., she spent much of her childhood in East Orange, N.J., before the family moved to Taneytown, Md., and then settled in East Stroudsburg, Pa. She was an outstanding scholar, particularly when it came to the English language and its use. Mary Ann''s life reflected this interest. She wrote poetry, edited manuscripts, earned her BA degree in English, published a newspaper entitled "Healing and Harmony," and was an avid reader, particularly of mystery novels. Her book of poetry, "A dance through clear water," was published in 1996. Mary Ann married on Gary Field May 24, 1981, in Pittsburgh, Pa. Three years later they moved, together with her son, John Collins, to the Central Coast. Her life in California, together with extended periods of residence in Melbourne, Australia, allowed Mary Ann to advance her interests in such areas as gardening, cooking, spiritual astrology, frogs, nutrition and herbal medicine practices. Her interest in family history provided the opportunity to further develop great skills as a researcher and resulted in the formation of many close friendships in diverse parts of the world. Above all, Mary Ann''s deep faith in God was a steady guide to how she lived her life and provided the radiance that was such a characteristic part of her personality. Mary Ann is survived by her husband, Gary Field; son, John Collins; and siblings Francis, Richard, Therese, Joseph, John, Patrick and Margaret Mary. She was predeceased by her father, Francis Ashcroft; mother, Ann (Quinn) Ashcroft; and brother, Edward. A service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010, at Kuehl-Nicolay, 1703 Spring St. in Paso Robles, followed by a gathering for family and friends at the clubhouse at Quail Run Estates, 1400 Quail Run Avenue (off Sherwood Road) in Paso Robles. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in memory of Mary Ann to a library of your choice, or to the Salvation Army. Kuehl-Nicolay Funerals 238-4383 Paso Robles