Ann Marie Meek

Ann Marie Meek, of East Lyme passed away on April 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, creativity, and always exuding her quiet strength. Ann was a loving spouse, she was the widow of Richard F. Meek Sr., a loving mother, and grandmother.

Ann was born on March 30, 1937, in New London, the daughter of Leo Messina Sr. and Leonora Menghi Messina.

From an early age, Ann had a gifted eye for beauty and design, a passion proudly pursued through her studies at Parson School of Design in New York. Ann played a significant role in supporting her late husband, Richard’s commercial fishing business, Sea Nymph Sportfishing. Ann was able to raise her four children while running the business.

Ann was loving, nurturing, and deeply caring. One of her greatest joys was being actively involved in her grandchildren's lives, creating countless wonderful memories and engaging in a variety of activities together. Her life was firmly grounded in family and love, and she was consistently devoted to those around her.

Ann had an abundance of love to share, which led her to become the head infant teacher at the Children’s Discovery Center in Westbrook. Over the course of 12 years, she dedicated herself to nurturing the children and maintaining connections with many families. She treasured the holiday cards she received and delighted in watching the children grow over the years. Ann found joy in fashion design, swimming, crocheting, sports: she loved watching Geno and UCONN, NY Yankees, Celtics, and spending time with those she loved most.

Ann will be remembered for her creativity, kindness, devotion to family, and the gentle love she gave so freely. Her presence shaped the lives of many, and her memory will be treasured always. Though her loss is felt deeply, the love Ann gave so generously will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren and all the lives she touched.

Ann is survived by her children, Jeffrey Meek of East Lyme, Pamela Meek Gracey and her husband Dean of East Haddam, and Brian Meek, also of East Lyme; her siblings Lee Messina of Florida and Elizabeth, “Betty Lou,” Monti of Rhode Island; grandchildren Tyler Gracey, Ashleigh and Ashton Meek, and a great grandchild Elijah Tetelbaum.

In addition to her husband Richard, Ann was also predeceased by her son Richard, “Dickie” Meek Jr., brother Robert Messina, and granddaughter Erin Meek.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 26th from 11 to 1 at Il Pomod’Oro Restaurant & Pizzeria located at 117 Boston Post Road, East Lyme, CT.