Anne McKenney Grigg

Anne Edwards McKenney Grigg put the finishing touches on her last batch of Watermelon Rind Pickle, then relinquished life for an everlasting game of Mahjongg on February 10, 2021. The daughter of the late Blanche Ellen Edwards McKenney and Garland Bentley McKenney, Anne was born in Lancaster County. She said she was a birthday present to her older brother, the late Garland Bentley (Max) McKenney, Sr., although he may not have initially seen it that way. Anne grew up in Farnham, Virginia, among many close family members. She graduated from Farnham High School, then made Richmond home to attend the Johnston-Willis School of Nursing, graduating in 1960. While Anne spent most of her career nursing premature babies, she did meet one special patient, her beloved future husband, John Edward Grigg. Anne and Ed were married at North Farnham Episcopal Church in May 1963. They had four children, Natalee DeCoursey Johnsrud (Brent), John Edward Grigg, Jr. (Blair), Sarah Caroon Mitchell (Jeff), and Randolph Lloyd Grigg. Together, Anne and Ed built their dream house, and although Ed passed away shortly after its completion, Anne made sure his spirit lived on in their home and their family. Anne’s four grandchildren were her absolute joy, John Edward Grigg III, William Landon Grigg, Signe DeCoursey Johnsrud, and Daniel McClees Johnsrud. She dearly loved her nephews Garland Bentley McKenney III and Charles Gregory McKenney as well. Anne is also survived by her dear sister-in-law Margaret Anne Saunders McKenney and cherished cousins Leroy Ward Edwards and William Richard Kennerly, Jr. Anne filled her life with many good friends and good deeds. As a member of All Saints Episcopal Church, she served on Altar Guild and Flower Guild. Anne served as chair of the Junior Board at The Virginia Home. She was on the Council at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, where she was a contributor to and chair of Fine Arts and Flowers. Passionate about flowers and gardens, she was a longtime member of River Road Garden Club and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Anne cared for everyone she met; acquaintances often became lifelong friends. She was quick to visit friends or family in need, gifting them with her lovely company, and likely also a pound cake, some ham biscuits, pickles, and deviled eggs. She loved her time with her Mahjongg ladies, vacations to Sandbridge, and any time spent with the Bookers. The Northern Neck and Richmond were both home to Anne, and Anne’s home was open to many a god-child, spare-child, or extended family. Graveside service will be private. Anne wanted a celebration for her friends and family. We are grateful she was with us at the end and will honor her memory when it is safe for everyone to be together. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Anne’s memory may be made to All Saints Episcopal Church and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.