ANN WATLINGTON

WATLINGTON, Ann W., a cancer survivor for almost 20 years, departed this life on April 2, 2013. She was at home, surrounded by her family and loved ones. She was predeceased by her parents, Paul B. Watlington Jr. and Lelia Carson Watlington. She is survived by her precious daughter, Carson S. Watlington; her sister, Judy W. Hudgins (George); her brothers, Paul B. Watlington (Kazue) and Sam Watlington; nephews, Tripp Hudgins (Trish) and C.G. Hudgins; and a special neighbor and sister by choice, Carol Thomas. She was a graduate of Westhampton College, University of Richmond, and a distinguished teacher of social studies and history, who influenced the lives of many students for 30 years in Henrico County Public Schools. She received the Gilman in 1995 and Brookland Middle School's Teacher of the Year award in 2004. After retiring from the public school system, she continued to share her love of history as a teacher at the Valentine Richmond History Center, where she also was a docent. She was a tour guide at the John Marshall House, St. John's Church and the Dooley Mansion at Maymont. She was a deacon and Sunday school teacher at Ginter Park Baptist Church. Ann's keen interest in history was far surpassed by her passion for being a mother. In 1999, accompanied by her sister, Ann travelled to China and adopted her beloved daughter, Carson, at the age of two. Their lives revolved around a love of animals, each other and the pursuit of education. The family would like to thank the home health/hospice providers at St. Mary's for their kind services. The family would also like to extend a special expression of thanks to the staff and many friends at the church for their love and support. There will be a memorial service on Sunday, April 21, at 3 p.m. at Ginter Park Baptist Church, Richmond, Va. A reception will follow where there will be an opportunity to share remembrances. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Ann's memory to Ginter Park Baptist Church, 1200 Wilmington Ave., Richmond, Va. 23227.

This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.