Ann H. Folkins

FOLKINS, Ann H., 93, a long-time Tucson resident passed away peacefully on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 8, 2011. Charles Walter Folkins, her husband of 72 years, preceded her in death by 29 days. She leaves three children: Faye (Dick) Miltenberger, Cheryl (Vince) McGinnis and Chuck (Mary) Folkins; nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. The sixth of seven siblings, Ann was born to John and Mary (Tivnan) Gallaher in St. Louis, MO on July 27, 1917 and grew up on a farm in nearby Overland. She owed her practical approach to life to her rural upbringing. But her sharp wit and perseverance reflected pure Irish-American grit. She loved the Lord, was devoted to the Blessed Mother, and cared deeply for those less fortunate. Ann reveled in the tales and adventures of her grandkids and great-grandkids. She could solve the hardest Sudoku puzzles, recall events long forgotten by others, and train a pundit's eye on world affairs, especially the shenanigans of politics. In an earlier time, she plied her magic touch to a backyard garden, where lilacs and honeysuckle smelled like sweet heaven, exotic ginkgos and loquats thrived in desert soil, and trees wounded by wind and lightning were miraculously revived. Ann touched her family in much the same way. And they miss her dearly. Visitation is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 20, 2011 at BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL, 6910 E. Broadway. Family will conduct a private burial service. Friends may send memorial donations to Casa Maria.