Annette Thomas Hoxsey

1936 - 2024

Annette Thomas Hoxsey
September 18, 1936 - June 8, 2024
Annette T. Hoxsey passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024, at the age of 87. Born Annette Thomas to Margarite and Hubert Thomas on September 18, 1936, Annette was the middle of three children and enjoyed an idyllic childhood in East Wenatchee, WA. She cherished her lifelong friendship with Judy Bousquet, Pat Burke, and Carol Gray, who together were affectionately known as The Filthy Four.
Driven by a desire for higher education and a sense of adventure, Annette attended Mills College and the University of Washington, where she joined the Delta Gamma sorority and discovered her passion for theater, starring in several productions at the Showboat Theater. After graduation, she married Philip H. Oliver, and together they had two children, Antonia Oliver and Cameron Oliver. In 1962, Annette's dreams of a growing family were altered by the sudden death of Philip in a fishing accident. Despite this tragedy, Annette raised Antonia and Cameron with unwavering compassion and purpose as a single mother.
Annette's love for theater and adventure shaped her family's life, leading to memorable travels both near and far, including visits to the Hershey chocolate factory, experiencing Doug Henning's magic show in New York City, exploring Yellowstone National Park, deep-sea fishing in Puerto Vallarta, and visiting the pyramids of Teotihuacán in Mexico City.
In 1978, Annette married James Hoxsey, and together they embraced the joys of a blended family, including James's children: Kevin Hoxsey, Christopher Hoxsey (deceased), Mark Hoxsey, Brennan Hoxsey, and Elizabeth Stuver, along with Annette's children, Antonia and Cameron, and eventually Robin Gainey. Active and adventurous, Annette and James volunteered with the National Ski Patrol, hiked, biked, played tennis, golfed, and led family skiing trips across North America. Following early retirement, they pursued their passion for travel, exploring every continent except Antarctica a trip canceled due to severe weather and Annette's Parkinson's diagnosis.
Undeterred, Annette remained vibrant and active for over 25 years, enjoying Zumba, yoga, puzzles, and games. Doting on her grandchildren, her beloved dog Jax, and her husband James. She was an avid supporter of community theater, a devoted art collector, and a lover of golf. Annette and James shared their twilight years in assisted living and memory care until Annette's peaceful passing.
Annette's legacy is one of resilience, love, and an adventurous spirit. She leaves behind a family enriched by her passion for life, her strength, and her enduring love.