She was born on September 21, 1926 in New Bern to James E. Ragan and Annie Cowan Ragan. In addition to her parents, Anne was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Joseph “Joe” L. Gwaltney, Sr., brothers James E. Ragan, Jr. and Jack M. Ragan; sisters, Helen R. Eubanks, Ernestine “Tine” Prescott and Catherine “Kitty” Nichols. She is survived by her three children, Joseph “Larry” Gwaltney, Jr. and wife Suzanne M. Gwaltney of Oriental, Joanne G. Ashton and husband Rudolph Ashton of New Bern and Stephen K. Gwaltney of Grantsboro. Lovingly adored by her grandchildren, Karl S. Gwaltney, Joseph “Jay” L. Gwaltney III and Katy H. Gwaltney, Dr. Erin Ashton, R. Alex Ashton and wife, Stephanie and great grandson, Guy A. Ashton, who called her “Mimi”, and many nieces, nephews and caregivers who loved her.
Anne and Joe owned the Culligan franchise in New Bern until moving to Oriental in 1974 to open Sail/Loft Realty. Anne loved selling real estate and continued working until she retired at the age of 75.
A wonderful hostess, Anne had a passion for cooking and spending time entertaining friends and family. She received great pleasure from snow skiing, playing bridge, shagging and boating. Anne loved her church and was a member of Garber United Methodist Church and active in the Oriental United Methodist Church before returning to New Bern in 2004.
Anyone who met Anne will always remember her beautiful smile and loving nature. “Miss Anne” touched the lives of many through her volunteerism as a Grey Lady at the Craven County Hospital. She was also the first contributor to the Pamlico Community College Education Foundation.
A true New Bernian , Anne graduated from New Bern High School in 1944.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, December 13, 2012 at Garber United Methodist Church with Rev. Stan Brown and Rev. Matthew Atha officiating. A reception with the family will follow the service at the church. The family will also receive friends at other times at the home of Joanne and Rudy Ashton.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Eastern NC Alzheimers Association, 3739 National Drive, Suite 110, Raleigh, NC 27612, Community Home Care and Hospice, 1423 A. South Glenburnie Rd, New Bern, NC 28562, or to a charity of your choice.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18