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Ann Locey Obituary
Ann Locey Obit by Bill Locey
Ann Locey, the nicest woman ever and the best mom I ever had, passed away on Nov. 21, 2008, due to a variety of physical ailments related to low blood pressure, orthostatic hypotension. Her husband of 55 years, Lon Locey, took the final step six years previous to Ann. She was 81.
Ann was born in Taft in 1927, the daughter of Marge Brown and Ben Taddish. Ann's mom remarried, and Ann Garrison and her sister, Maryland, grew up on Barry Drive off the Ventura Avenue. Ann graduated from Ventura High School in 1942 and worked her entire adult life as a waitress, first as a teenager during World War II at Maddox (now the Busy Bee down on Main Street) and later, she served breakfast for 21 years at the Pierpont Inn. A picture of a smiling Ann is still on the wall of the lobby.
Married in 1948, Lon and Ann left suburbia behind in 1967, trading a tract home in a nice neighborhood in Ventura for dusty Oak View, where they became happy horse trainers and accomplished trail riders. Good ones, too — both were multi-time high point champions and presidents of VCSC — the Ventura County Saddle Club.
She was the prettiest mom at the PTA or den mother in the Cub Scouts or rooting at the Little League games or bringing us lunch as I watched the Dodgers, the Sooners or the Bruins with my dad, but more importantly, she was the nicest person I've ever known. She was June Cleaver, but without the slightest hint of aggravation. Ann never smoked, drank a little maybe twice, never swore nor talked ill of anyone. Her very presence made everyone's life better, especially mine.
Further, not enough can be said about the selfless and infinitely kind service tendered to my mom over her final days by the wonderful folks at Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association. In lieu of flowers (we grow our own, anyway), donations may be made to that wonderful nonprofit hospice organization.
Marceline Ann Locey is survived by her faithful and loving dog, Cocoa; a sister, Marilyn Oldridge of Pomona; a son, Bill; a grandson, Ethan; multiple great-grandchildren; not to mention an Ojai Valley-full of friends. A wake will be held at high noon at her residence on the last day of November.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ann Locey
Diane Barnett
December 17, 2008
My memories start way back, in 1971 to be exact, when my family moved to Oak View. I was promised a horse to help me endure the anxiety of relocating during my high school years. I didn't know a thing about horses, but I was soon to learn more than I could ever imagine possible. My life changed forever the day I met Ann and Lon. Ann was recommended by all who loved horses. She was a renowned horse trainer and rider. She was truly "one of a kind", not only for her love of horses but for her love of people. I remember her smile and her statement "don't sweat the small stuff just push him forward. That was horse talk. My nick name was Di-zees. Ann and Lon adopted me and I spent endless hours, days, months, and years enjoying their company. My parents wondered what happened to their daughter, but they loved Ann and Lon and all of us spent many times together. I have so many wonderful memories but I will always remember Ann dressing me and my horse before each horse show. I went on to win the years high point award at the Ventura County Saddle Club in 1973. I was so inspired by these two people that I went on to study Animal Science at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Later, they introduced me to a young "pre-vet" student from Cal Poly. No love affair, (Lon was hoping) but he did offer me an exciting life working with Thoroughbred race horses. Of course I remained in close contact for many many years, unfortunately I moved a distance away and started my own family. I had the opportunity to see Ann and Lon just prior to his death and they hadn't changed a bit. And yes Bill, I agree, she was the most beautiful mother as you stated. To Bill, Ethan and Marilyn, I'm so sorry for your loss. I can only express my sincere sadness at this time.
With Love and the greatest memories,
Diane Barnett
1981
Terri Rice
December 16, 2008
I am greatly saddened at the passing of such a dear friend. To call Ann my friend is an enormous understatement; second mom would be more fitting. Our lives crossed paths after my parents went to the Pierpont Inn for breakfast one morning in 1974. They were discussing the purchase of my first horse when Ann, their waitress, overheard them and offered her expert opinion about horses. It was because of that meeting that an 11-year-old girl got her first horse and started taking riding lessons from Ann. It wasn’t long before Lon got involved with my lessons and anyone that knew Ann and Lon knows that when Lon got involved, the ride got exciting.
For 4 years I spent nearly every weekend with one or both of them either competing at horse shows, ring stewarding for Lon, taking lessons, painting the round corral, cleaning stalls, watering the trees at the top arena, being the human hot walker, and any other chores that would keep me around the horses and the people that cultivated my love of horses. I called Ann every night like clockwork and she answered the phone, “Hello, Terribell”. We would discuss the day’s events and Ann would listen and comment as I told her in great detail how my horse worked for me that day. Ann was always full of words of praise and encouragement, which a young teenager can never get enough of and we always seemed to have a good laugh about something. But it wasn’t always laughs, we cried over the sale of my first horse then laughed later over all the great stories that came along with it. We quickly developed a bond that would never be broken.
When I was 15 my family moved to Arizona. I was able to take my horse with me but quickly realized my horse world would never be the same. The phone calls were now only a few times a year instead of every night. I returned to Oak View several times to visit Ann and Lon including once in 1981 when I introduced them to my then boyfriend, Creig. Ann oohed and aahed over him and Lon gave him the 3rd degree in a way that only Lon could get away with. The next visit was in the summer of 1990, Creig and I were married and had 3 children. I was so excited for Ann and Lon to meet our 5-year-old son, David and our 2-year-old twin daughters, Erin and Heather. Ann brought her horse down to the backyard so the kids could sit on him while she led him around. We had a great time and laughed at all the old stories we loved to relive whenever we had the opportunity, some of which weren’t so funny when they happened. Little did I realize that would be the last time I saw Ann and Lon.
We kept in touch by letters, Christmas cards, and phone calls over the years. I was devastated when I heard Lon had passed but was encouraged every time I talked to Ann because she sounded so strong and full of life. I always commented that she sounded just the same and I always pictured her the same as when I last saw her.
The Air Force keeps us moving, literally. We have moved 10 times since our last trip to Oak View and I promised myself I would find the time to go back, especially after Lon’s sudden passing. I regret to say my beloved second mom was called to be with the Lord before I made it back. My tears are for selfish reasons. I’m not ready to give up those phone calls and I want to laugh again with Ann at the old stories she loved to tell and I loved hearing, over and over again. I take comfort in knowing she is receiving the treasures that she spent a lifetime storing in heaven. I look forward to seeing her and Lon again one day.
Bill and Ethan, thank you for sharing your mom/grandma with me for so many years. She was truly a blessing in my life.
Cathy Locey-Thompson
December 2, 2008
Billy, I was so sorry to hear that your Mom had passed away. She was the sweetest and most beautiful person. I'll never forget her kindness to my Mom. She called her all the time to see how she was doing. My Mom was always happy to hear from her. I know as an adult I didn't see your Mom or Dad as much as I should have. After my Dad had passed away and I would go visit your Mom and Dad, I would get so emotional talking to your Dad, because he not only looked alot like my Dad but sounded so much like him too. The last time I saw you was at my Dads' services in Jan. '92. Take Care.
All My Love,
Your Cousin,
Cathy Locey-Thompson
Leslie Merical
November 30, 2008
Dear Bill, I only met your mom a few times. One of those times I took her out to lunch after Suz & I visited you in the hospital. She was a charming, dear and kind person - even though she wasn't feeling well that day. She was still full of grace & love for you. Her kindness lives in you & you're a testament to your mom's love. I am thinking about you, Ethan & your mom after reading your eloquent & heart tugging tribute. You did her memory & life proud. Love, Leslie
M. Goldstyn
November 30, 2008
Bill,
Sorry to hear about the passing of your mother.
Mickey
DOULAS OLDRIDGE
November 30, 2008
SHE WAS MY SPECICAL AUNT SHE WAS THE ONLY AUNT I HAD I NO WE DID NOT SEE EYE TO EYE I NO SHE STILL CARE AND I DID TO I MISS HERE SUNDAY AFTERNOON PHONE CALL S TO MY MON HER SISTER REST IN PEACE YOUR NEWPHEW DOUGLAS LA VERNE
MARILYN AND DOUG OLDRIDGE
November 30, 2008
BILL IS RIGHT MY SISTER WAS A JUNE CLEAVER, ALWAYS A SMILE ON HER FACE , AND AGOOD WORD FOR EVERONE . GROWING DURING THE SUMMER WE WENT TO THE BEACH AND SKATED AT THE ROLLER RINK AT THAT TIME WAS AT THE END OF CALIF STREET. WE ALL MISS YOU VERY MUCH YOUR SISTER MARILYN B GARRISON OLDRIDGE LA VERNE CALIF
Ventura Theater
November 29, 2008
Bill,
We are sorry for your loss, and want you to know that while your mother is gone, she has left a wonderful legacy: You. For although unlike your Mother you often speak silently of you dislikes for things (by not buying a shirt) you are always a joy and pleasure to have around and we consider you part of our family. That is truly a testament to the way she brought you up to be a man. Please come by soon.
Jackie Ramseyer
November 28, 2008
If it had not been for wonderful Ann and Lon Locey I would never have gotten back on a horse again after an accident as a teenager. My horse, the wonderful, to me, Vinnie, who a lot of people in the Valley knew was sold to me by Bill Rice and it was he who told me about Ann. Seems she had also had dealings with Vinnie. I have so many wonderful memories, there just aren't enough words to express how I felt about her. I will miss her till my dying day. She and Lon are together once again and yes hopefully they are training wonderful children how to ride horses in Heaven. I hope that you are able to ride Freckles again. Bill you take good care of CoCo for her.
Alice Finn
November 28, 2008
She was one of the best things about attending church. Enjoyed our time in the pew.
Terri Bartholomew
November 28, 2008
Bill,
That was beautiful what you wrote about your mom, my Aunt.. Even though it's been a long time since I have seen the family she will always be my "Auntie Bah" I remember her the exact way you wrote about her. We are all truly blessed to have had her in our life.
Love,
Terri Ann Oldridge-Bartholomew and family
A Reader
November 28, 2008
This is one of the most beautiful tributes I've read. She raised a good son.
Mickey Moodhard
November 28, 2008
Bill and Ethan, I know it has been a long time since we have seen each other but I ofter think of all the fun times our families had while growing up. I am so sorry for loss of your mom and grandma. My prayers are with you and your framily.
Mickey Moodhard (formally Elliott)
Dale Emde
November 27, 2008
Sounds like a wonderful part of the human race. Let's hope more like her are coming along. Dale Emde
Wanda Acquisto & family
November 27, 2008
Bill, what a wonderful tribute to your Mom. I had known Ann for many years, in fact, my daughter showed horses with her for years in Ojai and Ventura and I bought a horse from Ann one time. Remember, all you have to do now is look skyward and smile and she will smile back at you.
My sincer condolance to you and your family.
Eileen Walker
November 27, 2008
Happy trails, Ann ... We KNOW there are horses in heaven.
Lucy Ouano
November 27, 2008
Hi Bill,
I do not know you nor your mother, but I saw her beautiful picture while looking for my friend's obituary. I read your wonderful tribute to her and needed to say that she was a very wonderful mom to you and how fortunate she was to have had such a wonderful son. I will pray for her today, Thanksgiving Day and the days to come. May your pain in these hard times be softened by the touch of the sun and may your life be fulfilled until you meet your parents again.
Steven Tabarez
November 27, 2008
I wish I had the ability to put these letters and symbols together to express my extreme sadness at the passing of this wonderful woman, but I do not. I do know she was wonderful because she was the mother/grandma of two of the most awesome men on the planet, Bill and Ethan. I know you guys are sad in your hearts but just know this: Your mama/grandma was proud of you two guys. She is watching you guys every minute while having a cup of tea with Ralph J. Gleason and Lester Bangs, and explaining why Bill is better than both of them. "No I would not give you false hope/on this strange and mournful day...." but I will give you the assurance that she will live in all our hearts forever and really never leave us.
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