Ann Goncalves

She was born on November 1, 1941, at 11:40 p.m. in Delwin, Texas. She was first named Lucy Ann Shehan, but shortly thereafter her name was lovingly changed to Anna Marie Shehan—the name by which she would be known and cherished throughout her life, a change she always appreciated as she never cared for the name Lucy.

Anna lived a life defined by love, strength, and devotion. Being called home on Mother’s Day was a fitting reflection of the care and compassion she gave so freely to her family. She had a warm spirit and a kind heart, and she found her greatest joy in the people she loved.

She spent the last three years of her life in Arizona with her companion, Mitzee, and her son, Greg. Together, they made up for lost time after living far apart for much of their lives—time that became especially meaningful to them all. Anna also loved her granddaughters, Alexis and Haley, very much. Although life took them in different directions in later years, she cherished the time they spent together when they were younger, holding those memories close throughout her life.

Anna shared a deep and loving bond with her daughter, Tina, and Tina’s family, Mick and Shelby. Throughout her life, Tina was always by her side, offering constant love, care, and unwavering support.

She cherished the time she spent with her only living sibling, her sister Kay and her family. Anna and Kay would talk for hours about everything under the sun, sharing a special sisterly bond that is rare and deeply meaningful.

While living in Turlock, California, Anna moved in with her late sister Betty’s son, Nick (Chip) Gutierrez, his wife Tami, and their family. During this time, she formed a special and meaningful bond with their son, Chandler. Their family lovingly cared for her, and their support, kindness, and presence meant a great deal to her.

She is survived by her companion, Mitzee, her Shih Tzu–poodle of Goodyear, Arizona; her son, Greg Goncalves (Diane) of Goodyear, Arizona; her daughter, Tina Larson (Dave) of Chowchilla, California; her sister, Kay Thayer (Jerry) of Citrus Heights, California; her grandchildren, Mick Medeiros of Turlock, California, Shelby Hamaguchi (Scott) of Turlock, California, Alexis Stewart (Josh) of Kyle, Texas, and Haley Goncalves of Castle Rock, Colorado; and her great-granddaughters, Siena Hamaguchi and Sadie Hamaguchi, both of Turlock, California.

She also shared a cherished lifelong friendship of more than 70 years with Terry Caprario of Los Banos, California—a bond that reflected Anna’s loyalty and deep capacity for love and connection.

Anna is now reunited with those who preceded her in death: her husband, Jerry Goncalves; her father, George Shehan; her mother, Della Shehan; her brothers, Donald, Ivan, and Phil; and her sisters, Betty and Elzora (“Sis”).

Anna will be remembered for her gentle nature, her resilience, and the enduring love she gave to her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Services will be held at Lakewood Memorial Park in Hughson, California, on June 17 at 11:00 a.m.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.