Annie Ralston

Annie Ralston, age 98 of Warren, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 surrounded by her loved ones. She was born November 14, 1922 in Glasgow, Scotland, daughter of the late John and the late Ann (nee: O’Kane) Campbell.

Born and raised across the pond in Scotland, Annie Campbell was a pretty young lass from the town of Glasgow where she enjoyed her childhood and grew more beautiful with the passing of time. That beauty was seen by all in whose paths she crossed, but perhaps none more meaningful and striking than that of a fine and handsome young lad by the name of John Ralston, more affectionately known to all as “Scotty.” What began as simple courting would turn into a budding romance, which would ultimately blossom into a deep and abiding relationship that led the two lovebirds to the altar and their shared vows of marriage. Scotty & Annie’s special day was shared with all of their loved ones and friends on July 12, 1944 at St. Mary’s Church in Kirkintilloch, Scotland, and was the beginning of their journey together as husband & wife, a journey of love that would span over 72 years until Scotty’s passing in 2017.

After making their way to America in search of greater opportunities, Annie was blessed to have found her niche in the healthcare field where she worked as a nurse’s aide. Employed by the former McNamara Hospital in Detroit, Annie worked diligently and feverishly to support and align with her fellow nurses in the care of the patient’s entrusted to them. With the heart of Florence Nightengale, Annie strove to give her best and extend the compassion she was endowed with by God.

For those who knew Annie and her own personal joys, there’s no question that one of her favorites was definitely playing the lottery. Always in the hopes of seeing her name in those neon lights from winning the Big Pot, Annie was faithful in purchasing her tickets and waiting with bated breath for those numbers to magically appear. It was low risk, but came with high hopes of what might be. And you know,…had she won the Big One, Annie was the kind of person who would have blessed many others with her windfall. Somewhat in the same church, just different pew,…Annie’s love for the game of chance was also found in the trips she shared with Scotty to the casinos. Not only was there immense pleasure and entertainment from the moment they boarded the bus until it reached its destination, but the anticipation along the way was the cherry on the sundae. And of course, their pleasure was never more piqued than when their destination found them disembarking at the infamous Firekeeper’s Casino in Battle Creek, Michigan. Though you would think they are all the same, Annie & Scotty would have begged to differ.

Coming from an era much different than today, one of the “by-gone” pleasures for many was their penchant for dancing,…and nobody looked more smooth on the dance floor than Scotty & Annie. Whether kicking up their heels in a lively polka, or the simple sway of an embracing waltz, Annie & Scotty made it look effortless,…and their love for each other was never more evident than when they were in each others’ embrace, gliding along the dance floor like Fred & Ginger. And though dance halls were extremely prevalent back in the day, their favorite spot was the Tartan Social Club, a renowned gathering place for those of Scottish descent. It was the best of both worlds,…enjoying their love of dancing while also building upon the bonds of friendship and the kinship shared through their Scottish heritage.

Like most Mom’s and Grandma’s back in the day, Annie could definitely “get her groove on” when it came to cooking and baking. There wasn’t anything she couldn’t prepare, but she especially shined when it came to the traditional Scottish fare her family so enjoyed. Annie truly ROCKED with her signature bowl of porridge, as well as her delicious Tatties & Mince. Her steak pie and shortbread could also make your eyes roll back in your head with pure pleasure. All she needed was a kitchen, a stove & oven, and some preparation space,…then just step back and watch the magic unfold. Annie was truly the British Isle’s answer to a Culinary Queen.

Annie was also a woman who was in touch with style & elegance, which is why she never missed her Saturday appointment at the hair salon. Always coifed and ready to step out, Annie was truly the definition of sophistication and grace.

Yet, of all she will be remembered for, Annie was the best Mom & Grandma her family could have ever hoped for. She doted on her daughter and son, and was over-the-moon in love with her cherished grandchildren. And not merely a Grandma,…Annie was also blessed to love on her 13 great-grandkids, and those 3 precious great-great grandchildren that were a part of her life.  She definitely possessed a quiver full of love, and she treasured every moment spent in their company. The same also applied to the rest of her loving family, the jewels of her life that she spent a lifetime creating the wonderful memories that are sure to keep her close. From her family to her many friends, to each patient in the hospital and the plethora of people she met along the way…Annie touched a multitude of hearts and souls as she journeyed this side of Heaven. May she now enjoy the blessings on the other side as she rests safely in the arms of God. She will be missed beyond expression and loved beyond measure.   

Annie was the beloved wife of the late John. Dearest mother of Ann (Paul) McGuckin and William (Dawn) Ralston. Loving grandmother of Dawn Morway, Heather (John) Pastorino, Jeremy (Ann) Ralston, Patti McGuckin, Kari McGuckin, Josh Ralston, and Karin Brown. Cherished great-grandmother of Meghan (Eric) Glabach, Josie Hile, John Hile, Jenna Pastorino, Hannah Pastorino, Hannah Ralston, JD Ralston, Ajay Ralston, Braylon Mullins, Allena McGuckin, Taylor McGuckin, Amyah McGuckin, Harmoni Hurst, and great-great grandmother of Gabriel Glabach, Raegan Glabach, and Aiden Mills. Also spread around the globe are her many loving nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations are welcomed to Hospice of Michigan, 989 Spaulding SE, Ada, Michigan 49301. (www.hom.org) 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan.

Please share memories of Annie at her guest book below.