Ann Mayes

Ann B. Mayes VIRGINIA BEACH - Ann Blair Mayes, 76, peacefully passed away Oct. 31, 2009, in Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital. She died from congestive heart failure resulting from pancreatic cancer. She handled the fight against this horrible disease in her own terms - with optimism, dignity, humor and integrity. Ann was born in Hopewell, Va., to the late Gordon and Ruby Harrell Blair. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Edward Wallis Mayes Jr.; her devoted son and daughter-in-law, Mark Edward and Paula Yost Mayes; her beloved granddaughter, Lauren Rachel Mayes; her brother and his wife, Edward and Rita Blair; and Lauren's mother, Debi Clevinger Mayes. Also left to fondly and lovingly cherish her memory are numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, neighbors and her grand-dogs and grand-kitty. She was a graduate of Norview High School and a graduate of the satellite branch of The College of William & Mary, currently known as Old Dominion University. She will be remembered as a gentle spirit with a strong will, a sense of humor and a lovely humbleness. Heartfelt thanks are extended to Dr. Dean McGaughey and his staff at Virginia Oncology Associates and her Bridge-Hospice caretakers, Peggy Mullins, R.N., Laura Manthey, physical therapist and Mary Ann Caldwell, Home Health Care aid and the wonderful ICU staff at Beach General. Smith & Williams Funeral Home, Kempsville Chapel, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Visitation will be between 6 and 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5. A graveside service will be held Friday, Nov. 6, at 1 p.m. in Forest Lawn Cemetery. Friends may send condolences to www.mem.com.