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Ann Masters Obituary
She is survived by her two daughters and sons-in-law, Chamberlain Ann Masters Miller and Jan M. Miller, of Ashburn, Va., and Helen Stuart Masters Durham and Lucian A. Durham, III, Ph.D., M.D., of Rochester, Minn.; and her five grandchildren, Arch Durham, Ryan Miller, Coleman Miller, Ann Husted Durham, and Rob Durham. Each "grand" had a unique and delightful relationship with their "Gram." She was always their friend and they her joy.
Also surviving is her half sister, Tisha Davey Richman, of Woodstock, Va.; and her extended family, Miles Masters, Elizabeth Masters, Bob and Bettie Sue Masters, Dan and Virginia Leonard; as well as her precious nieces, Margaret Miles Leonard Clark, Elizabeth Leonard Ryan, Diane Elizabeth Masters, and Deborah Ann Masters Camitta. She was the daughter of Cosie Updike Davey, of Roanoke, Va., and Charles Shelton Davey, of Bentonville, Va.
Ann graduated from Jefferson High School in Roanoke and attended Mary Washington College, Roanoke College and Hollins College. She also took courses at the Smithsonian Institution. She was an active member of Greene Memorial United Methodist Church and began her service there as a Sunday school teacher and then later serving as a Trustee of the church. She was also a Stephen Minister volunteer for the church. She was a former member of the Junior League of Roanoke Valley; a former board member of the Art Museum of Western Virginia; a past board member of the Harrison Museum of African American History; a devoted member of an Emmaus prayer group; and enjoyed very much a small reading salon.
She lovingly cooked for Interfaith Hospitality Network, a group whose mission is to mobilize faith communities to return homeless families to independence by providing temporary housing, meals and skills development. She was a true artist who enjoyed writing, photography, music, film, reading, spending time with her treasured friends and her home at the edge of the woods.
A Celebration of her Life will be held 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 26, 2009, at Greene Memorial United Methodist Church with the Rev. Gary Robbins, the Rev. Roger Matthews and L. Gerald Carter officiating. The family will receive visitors in fellowship hall of Greene Memorial United Methodist Church following the service.
The family suggests donations be made in her memory either to the Greene Memorial United Methodist Church Building Fund, 402 2nd Street at Church Avenue, Roanoke, Va. 24011 or to Clean Valley Council, 541 Luck Avenue, Suite 319, Roanoke, Va. 24016. Arrangements by Oakey's Roanoke Chapel, 540-982-2100.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ann Masters
Clara Jean Trent Summers
January 16, 2010
Dear Cam & Helen
I cannot tell you how sorry I am about your Mother's death. She was a wonderful person. I am Ann's first cousin, Clara Jean Trent Summers. My mother was Lelia Davey, Charlie, your Grandfather's sister. Ann and played together and were together a great deal of time in our very early days. I am several months older than Ann but have very great memories of those days. Joyce and Betsy joined with us some and we all had a great time.
I live in Northern Virginia and would love to speak to each of you. My phone number is 703 569-4857. I was in Pittsburgh when you had your Mothers service.
Mommie at work
Sam Durham
January 14, 2010
As each day passes, I wonder if it will ever feel any easier. You filled up this world with your warmth and love and I just don't feel like me anymore without you in it. I hope your wings are beautiful and I miss you with every breath. Cammie and I are trying our best to make you proud Mommie.
Carol Privette
January 5, 2010
Ann's talents, interests and zest for life made the people, organizations and community she served successful. Whether it was a grand art opening or tromping through a wet,muddy Festival in the Park, she could make it happen. What a lady! Always appropriate, kind and contributing. That was Annie. I will miss my dear dear friend. Carol
Meredith Lovegrove Roller
January 4, 2010
I met Ann Masters when I was five years old. She showed up at my door with a tiny doll for me and welcomed me to her soon-to-begin kindergarten class at Raleigh Court United Methodist Church. I was shy and her positive and loving personality helped ease me into the wider world of school. She taught me to love art and encouraged me by praising my first painting -- a big blue tempera paint whale!
Over the years, I have run into Ann here and there. I worked at Clean Valley Council before she was director there, and she contacted me when she began her work there. Most recently, we were together at a meeting for non-profits. She was representing CVC and I was there for Interfaith Hospitality Network.
Forty-four years have gone by since I first met Ann, and though I only saw her occasionally, she always remembered me, and showed an interest in my life. I suspect she was that way with everyone.
Ann was truly a teacher who made a difference in my life. I can tell she has made a huge difference in many lives and I know she has improved the quality of life for people in the Roanoke Valley through her work.
I'll miss you, Mrs. Masters.
Twig Gravely
December 28, 2009
Just too many good memories of Ann Masters to put down here, but how many people would allow you to park on their front lawn, and not say a word?
John McDowell
December 28, 2009
I am the Director at Interfaith Hospitality. About a month ago, I met Ann, and she told me of her cooking for our families. Her stories were delightful, and her food and kindness meant much to the homeless who stay with us. I am sorry for her untimely death, but I rejoice in the joy she brought to so many.
Clarice E. Walker
December 26, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of this wonderful gifted lady. She was indeed a blessing to the entire City of Roanoke and the valley. May God keep you in His care and bless you with wonderful memories of your loved one.
Ray Kass
December 26, 2009
It is very hard to say goodbye to such a generous and wonderful friend. Jerrie and I will miss you very much - but your kindness will stay in our hearts.
Deborah Masters
December 25, 2009
Aunt Ann was not only a wonderful mom to her two amazing daughters but a substitute mom for me during my college years and beyond. I have no doubt that she performed this role for many others as she had an open heart and listening ears. She had a natural ability to relate to others, regardless of age, while always providing non-judgmental advice.
I will miss her very much and my thoughts are with my cousins, Cammie and Helen.
--Debo Masters Camitta
Bettie Sue Masters
December 25, 2009
Dearest Family of Ann Davey Masters--
There are so many fond memories of Ann on Christmas Day, with whom for many years we shared the excitement of Christmas morning with our children, Diane and Deborah, and hers, Cam and Helen. Most likely, Ann and Bettie Sue had been up most of the night wrapping last minute packages and sipping her wonderful spiced tea. As a second Mom to our Deborah, while she was a student at Roanoke College, and as a hostess to our family at the Carolina coast in the summers, we always felt welcome in her home. Each of us shared the experiences of raising two girls, the wonder and the woes and the ultimate joy. Ann shared in the excitement of planning and attending Deborah's wedding in San Antonio, Texas, and she took charge of planning the reception/dinner in Roanoke for Diane and her future husband just before they left to be married in Florence, Italy.
Ann was a friend as well as an in-law and we remained in touch in person each Christmas season and through e-mail messages. We tried to stay in touch concerning our professional lives. Although Ann and Bettie Sue did not share the same fields of endeavor, they were each passionate about what they did and loved to share that passion.
We will miss Ann very much and will remember all of the good times with great affection. She has touched each of the lives in our family and left an indelible imprint.
--Bettie Sue and Bob Masters
Beth Shively
December 24, 2009
Dear Cam and Helen, Your mother was someone special to me. She was a beautiful lady with nice things always to say. She is missed, but we have wonderful memories to hold onto.
David
December 24, 2009
I first met Ann when she was pulling our of her drive with the newspaper on top of her car. Since then we found out we might even be related. She called me Cousin, my dog Precious, and without fail always had a cookie for him. Those of us at Stonehenge will miss a very kind, gracious lady.
Peter Rippe
December 23, 2009
Ann Masters was the curator of the Roanoke Fine Arts Center when it became the Roanoke Museum of Fine Arts (later, the Art Museum of Southwest Virginia and now, the Taubman Museum of Art). I will always remember her as a creative, inspiring and hardworking friend of the arts. Her infectious enthusiasm and her positive attitude brought a sense of joy to all of her many projects and exhibitions. Ann was a true masterpiece and she will be sorely missed. My condolences go out to her two beautiful daughters and their families as well as to her many, many, friends and co-workers...of which I am proud to say, I was one. May she rest in peace.
Jeannine Kerek
December 23, 2009
Warm, welcoming, witty, and wise are thoughts that come to mind in remembering the Ann I have known since grade school. She was a very special lady and will always be remembered with fond memories by all. My sincere condolences to her daughters and family.
Pat and Cass Jordan
December 22, 2009
Cam,
I just wanted to let you know how saddened we are at the loss of your mom. What an incredible legacy she leaves behind in you and in your whole family!
Someone as special as your mom will be missed by many. Just know that as you grieve such a tremendous loss, we will be lifting you up in prayer.
Lisa Doss
December 22, 2009
It was a blessing for me to team with Ann on an Emmaus Walk several years ago. She left a lasting impression on me as she shared her love for God and her family. What an inspiration she was to me during that time. I have echoed her words to others in hopes to express the virtures of the life that we have been given. My thoughts & prayers are with you girls and your families. Rejoice in the memories and knowing that God has a new angel.
SWVA Emmaus #78
Ed Murphy
December 22, 2009
I met Ann almost 30 years ago and thus began a wonderful relationship both working and as a friend. During my catering years,we collaborated on many wonderful functions. My favorite was a wedding rehearsal dinner on a point at Smith Mtn. Lake. Ann thought out the details and timed guest arrival just as the sun was setting. The glow of the sun's reflection on the crystal made the tables come alive with color. Ann walked past me and said " See Murph, told ya so" Gave me a wink and that all knowing smile and went on her way.
Rest well my friend we are all better off for having known you.
Debbie Blanton
December 22, 2009
Ann was so wise and caring and creative. She was one of the most inspiring people I ever knew. Her joy in her work and her connections to each of us on the Virginia Council for Litter Prevention and Recycling made all of us better, both in our spirits and our work. I learned so much from her, and I will miss her so very much. She was much loved among us.
Linda Zirkle
December 22, 2009
Ann was truly a inspiration to others!
I learned to know Ann from going to Litter Control and Recycling Meetings. She was truly a very special lady.
Gloria Puffinburger
December 22, 2009
I had to pleasure of getting to know Ann through our work on the Litter Council. She was the voice of experience -- gentle and calm in her approach.
Ann treaded ever so lightly across God's creation and she leaves it a much better place for having passed through. Traces of her footprints will forever remain across our hearts.
To her family, I extend my sincerest condolences.
Judy Hensley
December 22, 2009
Cam,
Please accept my condolences in the loss of your mother. She was such a gift to all who knew her. Roanoke Valley was so blessed to have her here. I know God will comfort you, and your heart hurt will get better as time passes.
Judy Hensley
(formerly SMWV)
Helen "Sam" Durham
December 22, 2009
My mommie's words given to my daughter in January after another painful loss... she was so wise. They are for each of you now. "Ego amo te. May your hopes and hurts and loves and dreams build you a stronger personal world. All of us add to your tapestry. Some of the weave is smooth and some of the threads are rough. Together they create a better, stronger, more understanding you - filled with the richness and quiet and joy of a gentle creative life."
Cammie and I are so touched by your outpouring. We know she was so, so very special, we are awed that everyone else knew too.
December 22, 2009
So sorry to hear the news. Ann was always such a joy to work with in state-wide litter control and recycling issues. She always had the practical solution to any problem. Allan Lassiter, former DEQ Director of Litter Control and Recycling.
John Freeman
December 22, 2009
Sam, Although we never met your mother in person, I was able to through e-mails. Our condolences and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. John, Amy, Morgan and Connor
Carol Craft
December 22, 2009
I met Ann just weeks after graduating college and starting my career in environmental protection. We hit it off so well that we talked for hours that first day. From that point, Ann was a mentor and dear friend on whom I could always rely. She did wonderful things while on this earth and truly left it a better place than when she came into it. I was lucky to know her and will miss her dearly. Ann was one of a kind.
Judy Shorter Thierry
December 22, 2009
Cam and Helen,
I will always remember your Mom growing up in Greene Memorial. She was always there with us and enjoying all of the activities. I will remember all of the good times that we all shared with her. She will be deeply missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May God Bless you at this time of sorrow.
Lee Woody
December 22, 2009
What a wonderful friend, mentor, and neighbor Ann was! She embraced life and lived it to the fullest. We shall miss her tremendously. We are holding her precious family very tightly in our hearts right now.
Sam, Lee, Mary Louise, and Draper Woody
Joan Phillips-Sandy
December 22, 2009
Every once in a while I read an obit that makes me really wish i had had the pleasure of knowing the person. This is one of those times. Fortunately I got a glimpse of her through knowing her wonderful daughter Sam and her delightful granddaughter Annie.
Dear Sam and Annie,
Heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Love and prayers coming your way from the frozen north.
Joan (and family)
Sue Grubbs
December 21, 2009
My heart goes out to Helen & Camie & families. Ann was such a vibrant person, always smiling & made you laugh when you were around her. I knew Ann for many years. Roanoke will miss her & so will Greene Memorial. May God be with you at this time. Sue Grubbs
Martha Dillard
December 21, 2009
I met Ann almost thirty years ago when she worked at the Art Museum. She was so encouraging to me as a new artist. She surely brought that same enthusiasm and energy, dedication and love to all her endeavors. I feel fortunate to have known her.
Elizabeth Leonard-Ryan
December 21, 2009
My heart is broken. I will forever miss my Aunt Ann. She had grace, style, warmth, and sophistication.She was always willing to give of her time and talents. Most of her contributions will never be known. For example, she made a assette tape of nursery songs, music box music, rhymes, and general information about our family for my son as he lay in his NICU incubator for 9 months. It took her hours upon hours to do, and was a gift from the heart. Her words live on forever in the tape. The memories live forever in my heart.
Sheila Barnett
December 21, 2009
Dear Ann's Friends and Family,
What a beautiful lady Ann was. She was such a warm, sweet,kindhearted and thoughful person. I'm sure that she left prints on many people's hearts. I'm going to miss her.
Steve Coe
December 21, 2009
Ann's warmth and genuine love for people made her a very special friend. Her work in the Roanoke area in the area of environmental awareness and environmental education reached across all sectors and really put the Clean Valley program in the spotlight. As a personal friend, I will always remember her sense of humor and her love of life. Ann, thanks for the friendship and for caring.
Dancer
Carol Doss
December 21, 2009
I just can't believe the news. Ann has been a part of my life ever since I became a litter prevention and recycling coordinator in Wise County many years ago. She has always been such an inspiration to me. I thought so very much of her and she was always so kind to me. I will truly miss her presence at statewide meetings. My condolences to her family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nell Boyle
December 21, 2009
Ann was an inspiration and a joy. She cherished her family, friends and the Roanoke Valley. She will be greatly missed. She has left an incredible impression on many of us to live life to the fullest and to protect our beautiful environment.
Norma Kinnick
December 21, 2009
To Ann’s family my deepest sympathy. She was so proud of all of you and in the years I worked for her, she rarely missed a day where she would call me into her office to show me a picture or email that pertained to a grandchild or daughter or son-n-law. She loved all of you dearly
She was a great boss and a great lady and best of all she was a great friend
Nancy Drumheller
December 21, 2009
To all of Ann's family--- I loved her dearly as she was my mentor and trusted confident. She loved her work and all of you.Roanke Valley is a better place because of her valiant efforts and commitments. I loved staying with her in the treehouse guest room-- we will all miss her terribly. Thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Anita McMillan
December 20, 2009
Annie - I was both shocked and deeply saddened to learn of your passing. You were a very dear friend and like a second mom to me for the last 14 years since I met you. I truly enjoyed working with you on the Clean Valley Council. My family and I will miss you...
Annie - May God Bless you and your family.
Annie Harman
December 20, 2009
Cam, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Ann was a friend and wonderful person. All of Roanoke Valley will miss her. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Sam.
Laurie Spangler
December 20, 2009
The Roanoke Valley is a better place because of Ann. I will miss seeing her at local environmental events.
Judy and John Schëar
December 20, 2009
Ann's memories will live with us for the rest of our life. We met her when she was the curator and from then on she has been one of the best friends Roanoke could ever have whether it was as curator or Clean Valley honcho. There was never a dull room when Ann was present nor was there ever a stranger after more than 30 seconds.
May God Bless you and your family,
Sincerely,
Fran Szechenyi
December 20, 2009
To Sam and Cam. Your Mother loved you more than life. She always talked about you and your families with so much joy and happiness. You filled her life with so much love. It is your time to fill your hearts with her love, by doing that, you will always keep her close to you.
Helen & Cammie
December 20, 2009
There are no words to express our gratitude for the outpouring of love and memories you have shared with us. Until the full obituary is available, we wanted you to know that a celebration of her life will be held at 3:00pm on Saturday, December 26, 2009 at Greene Memorial United Methodist Church with Rev. Gary Robbins, Rev. Roger Matthews and L. Gerald Carter officiating. The family will receive visitors in fellowship hall of Greene Memorial United Methodist Church following the service.
In lieu of flowers you may make a donation in her memory to either Clean Valley Council (541 Luck Avenue, Suite 319, Roanoke Va. 24016) or the Greene Memorial United Methodist Church Building Fund (402 2nd Street at Church Avenue, Roanoke Va. 24011).
Julie T.
December 20, 2009
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Ann's passing. Ann was such a wonderful and unique individual who truly cared about the Roanoke Valley and its citizens. She leaves a huge void that will never be completely filled. Ann--you will be missed and loved by all who knew you forever. May God be with the family at this time of sorrow.
Sherrye Lantz
December 20, 2009
A smile like a work of art, a twinkle in her eye, with kindness Ann gave so much to so many in the art community, and made the working fun. She is deeply missed. With sympathy for her family and her family of friends.
Tracy Garland
December 20, 2009
Ann was and remains a role model for environmental leaders in the Valley and beyond. Her quiet, dignified ability to wield the power of her intelligence and passion made her a force to be reckond with. Yet her gentleness and humor made for one of the most endearing people I have ever had the honor and pleasure of knowing.
Ann told me in an interview for Bella magazine last year: “I have had a good life with marvelous family, friends and fun”. And while her position as Executive Director of the Clean Valley Council is “the best job I've ever had,” Ann’s true goal in life is to work herself out of a job. “I would love to close the doors on the CVC, because that would mean that Roanoke is clean, pristine and healthy and that it’s going to stay that way.” She reflects “I hope my work has made a difference in the environment. I know the work has made a change in me.”
You can view the entire article at www.tracygarland.blogspot.com
Timm Jamieson
December 20, 2009
Our blessings and sympathy go to one the most vibrant art "masters" in the area. A beautiful woman both inside and out. I enjoyed working close to her in all phases of the art community.
She is now missed tremendously...but our memories are keen. We love you Ann
December 20, 2009
Annie was the gold standard of environmental stewardship in the Roanoke Valley. A deep thinker, she was a gifted communicator and loving, engaged leader and friend. God Bless you, Annie.
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