Anna B. York

Anna Geraldine “Jerry” York was born on May 2, 1925 in Kenosha, Wisconsin to Leo LaRue and Addie Ramona Slade Burris, who preceded her in death. She was the eldest of 3, her sisters, Patricia Wallen and Jane Young also preceded her in death.

Jerry graduated from George Washington High School in Indianapolis, IN, where she received many high honors. She participated in ROTC, she was crowned May Queen her senior year. Upon graduation she was awarded a scholarship to Purdue University. Due to economic hardships she had to decline the scholarship to help support her family. While attending George Washington High School she met the love of her life William F. “Bill” York. They were married by her great grandfather, Rev. Corneilus Airhart on October 14, 1943 at 11:45 p.m. They were blessed with two daughters, Jerrilyn “Lynn” and Debbie. They remained happily married until Bill’s passing in 2009.

Jerry began her working career at Eli Lilly’s and worked there until Bill returned from WWII. In 1962, Jerry went to work as an actuarial executive assistant for the CEO of McCready and Keene Pension Engineers and worked there until her retirement. She was active in her community and in her church.

Following retirement Jerry and Bill produced the world-renowned jazz festival known as JAM, Jazz Artist Musical, which took place every July 4th weekend for 10 years. Many famous jazz musicians graced their festivals and became life-long friends. Jerry and Bill loved to fish and they would cast their lines every chance they got. They loved traveling, bridge, pinochle, dancing and all genres of music. They loved NYC and San Francisco. She was an avid reader and loved doing crossword puzzles. She was an accomplished cross stitcher. Most of all she loved being with her family and friends.

Since 1984, she has been a season ticket holder for the Colts football team. She was honored with one of the first signed footballs by Andrew Luck presented to her by the Colts General Manager. She never met a stranger and had a knack for making a friend of all she met. Her life was full of love and kindness; always caring and putting others needs before her own.

Jerry went to be with the love of her life, Bill; and, her Heavenly Father on Sunday morning, May 26th 2024 at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Dennis, where she had lived for almost 15 years.

Those who will keep her memories and stories alive are her daughters, Jerrilyn “Lynn” (Ron) Thompson and Debbie (Dennis) Hamstra; grandchildren: Lori (Marvin) Schrage, Matthew (Lisa Starnes) Hamstra, Jeff (Juanita) Thompson and Dana (Jeff) Weber. She was blessed with 14 great grandchildren and 2 great- great grandchildren.

First and foremost, we want to thank a very special man in her life, Dr. Stephen Swinney. Throughout her many years he showed love, caring and compassion.

We would like to thank the loving kindness which was provided by Gentiva, especially Alaina Weddle, RN, Angelia Yates and Nikki Farmer RN.

Funeral arrangements are Friday, May 31, 2024 at Crown Hill Cemetery. Visitation 11:00 a.m., with service at 2:00 p.m. and burial at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, IN.