Ann Wakefield Morrill

Portland –Ann Wakefield Morrill, 53, died Thursday November 18, 2010 after a courageous 18-month battle with brain and lung cancer and a few weeks short of her 54 birthday. Ann, like the flowers she loved, has curled up her leaves and has returned back to her earth.

Born in Portland, Ann was the youngest child of the late Mildred A. and William C. Morrill Jr. She attended local Portland schools and graduated from Deering High School in 1975. She continued her education at the University of Maine at Farmington graduating in 1980, where she began a lifelong friendship with roommates, Bonnie and Leilani.

Earning her B.S in elementary education, Ann went on to teach as a migrant teacher then as a first grade teacher at Gilbert School in Augusta. She shared her joy and laughter and love of learning with each class, embracing them all. Her next stint of teaching was grade two at Farrington School also teaching summer school for children needing a bit more of an opportunity to learn.

Seven years ago, Ann retired back to Portland and began to share her love of gardening and her decorating talents with Peter. As their home began to reflect their personalities, so did their immaculate and extensive gardens. Days and oftentimes weeks would be spent in finding that just so perfect addition to the perennial beds. Their yard is an oasis in a busy world and one where they both took respite, enjoying their birds and each other’s companionship.

Ann also loved the ocean, and was always traveling out to Higgins Beach and later to Pemaquid to spend time with friends and family. Another favorite place for her to visit was her family’s cottage on Sebago Lake.

A recent trip to Europe with Peters’ mom, Betty, and her family was an experience that brought her great joy.

Ann loved life. She cherished the little things in life, like deadheading her flowers, making small bouquets throughout her home and listening to the birds. She and Peter loved music and were both seen dancing this summer at the Nateva concert. Their lives together were simple and loving.

Besides her companion, Peter Davidson, Ann is survived by her brothers; Tom and his wife, Leslie, Jon and his wife Holly. She was much loved by her niece, Jesse and her son Presley and her nephews Nicholas and his wife, Dorian and Ben and his partner, Vienna and Deven and his wife, Melissa. Many friends including Leilani and daughter, Leifa, and Peter’s family, who loved her as their own, Betty, Gretchen, Rob and Bonnie and their families also survive her.

The family would like to extend their gratefulness to Dr. Devin Evans and his gentle compassionate manner with Ann and her family. Thanks are also extended to the Gibson Wing at Maine Medical Center and the Gosnell Hospice House where she spent her last days surrounded by love and comfort.

A Memorial Service will be held 1p.m. Monday November 22, 2010 at Woodfords Congregational Church 202 Woodford St. Portland.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, 11 Hunnewell Road, Scarborough ME 04074

Arrangements are being handled by the Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home 199 Woodford St. Portland.

Please visit www.jonesrichandhutchins.com for additional information and to sign Ann’s guestbook.