Ann Marie Parkin

1963 - 2024

Ann Marie Parkin
January 5, 1963 - May 19, 2024
Ann Marie (Chrisman) Parkin was born to Shirley Huston Chrisman and John Chrisman in Dayton, Ohio, on January 5, 1963. She was the youngest of their four daughters: Carlin, Kristin, Susan, and Ann. The family lived in Dayton for her childhood and then returned to Oregon, where Ann attended high school in Portland and Waldport, on the Oregon coast. She graduated from Vassar College, where she met her first husband, Matt Savitz. Together they raised their three sons: Louis, Daniel, and Elliot in Weston, Connecticut. After her divorce, Ann began her career as a massage therapist and, along with her three sons, lived in the Connecticut towns of Westport, Trumbull, and Black Rock, before finally settling in Branford with her second husband, Frank Parkin. Ann's mother and father preceded her in death, Shirley in 2017 and John in 2018.
Ann, a beacon of love, wit, and creativity, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2024. Ann's artistic soul found expression in her vibrant paintings and in her voice, which soared in chorale performances, most notably in Handel's Messiah. Her love of Shakespeare and the arts was exceeded only by her love for her family, including her second husband Frank, with whom she found happiness in Branford. An attentive and loving mother, Ann delighted in spending time with her sons, particularly during the festive holiday season.
Ann's passion for life included a commitment to making a difference. This commitment led her to meeting President Obama the Oval Office. This rare honor recognized her heartfelt letter, which expressed gratitude for the Affordable Care Act's role in providing her with early detection and treatment of breast cancer.
Ann's legacy is not only in the family and art she leaves behind but also the strength and grace she demonstrated during her illness. Ann's nurturing spirit remains a comfort to all who knew her. Ann's life was a masterpiece, and her memory will be treasured forever.
Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Thursday May 30th, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main St., Branford.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 31 at 10:00 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Branford. A burial will follow in Branford Center Cemetery. Please see her online memorial at www.wsclancy.com.