

Ann was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas on September 19, 1944 to Joseph Frank McWilliams and Mary Cornelia Berry McWilliams. After her father retired from service in the Army, their family moved to El Dorado, Arkansas where she was raised. Ann was close with her grandmother, Marie Lee Berry, and had treasured memories from her time with her Granny in Dumas, Arkansas.
After graduating from Rhodes College in Memphis, Ann earned a Master's of Social Work from Tulane University. For almost 50 years, Ann maintained a private practice in New Orleans dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's most difficult challenges. Known for her compassionate presence, deep listening, and a commitment to professional growth, Ann touched and cared for many lives.
Ann was a cherished member of the community of New Orleans. She embodied the warmth, resilience, and joy that define the city. Known for her independent spirit and easy laughter, Ann never met a stranger and made everyone feel like family. She had a deep love for New Orleans' music, food, and traditions, and never missed the opportunity to dance at the Gospel Tent at Jazz Fest. Ann also took pride in passing those joys on to others.
Ann loved her family. She was preceded in death by her spouse, Jan Asch. She is survived by her son, Lee Patteson (Beth) of Lakeland, FL; her grandsons, Hayden Patteson (Lauren) of Birmingham, AL and Hunter Patteson of Lakeland, FL; and her brother, Joe McWilliams (Vivian) of Loganville, GA.
A gathering will be held at 2303 Broadway St, New Orleans, LA 70125 on Saturday, December 20th, from 10am to 12pm for friends and family to come by to celebrate her life.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to the New Orleans Musicians' Clinic & Assistance Foundation - https://neworleansmusiciansclinic.org/.
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