Born on November 23, 1955 in Michigan and grew up in Delaware, Ann was the second of four sisters born to Alger and Janet Simonds. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Carol Gain. She is survived by her sisters Margaret and Cindy, children Clayton Michaels (Carla) and James Michaels (Sarah), and grandchildren Jason Michaels and Kaylee Michaels.
Ann joined the Army and spent time in California and Germany. She traveled widely in Europe and often spoke fondly of her time exploring the history, culture, and food. She met and married Clay Jr. while on duty in Germany, and they made a home there after leaving the Army.
Together they had Clay III and James. They lived in Germany for many years before moving to Texas, then Virginia following Clay Jr.’s work. After their marriage ended, she remained in Virginia raising her boys, working as a travel agent, and traveling to Europe several times with her children or her lifelong best friend.
When grandchildren arrived, she enthusiastically threw herself into being their “Oma” by hosting sleepovers, attending school and sporting events, teaching them the arts of cooking and gardening, spending summers by the pool, and even being their full time teaching assistant the year that the kids’ school moved to virtual classes.
She was friendly and full of love and enjoyed meeting and talking to people. Ann made lifelong friends everywhere she went. She enjoyed British television, good food, gardening, and talking politics with her friends and family. Ann stood up for what she believed in, and despite her mobility challenges, she still showed up to support causes, raise her voice, and make a difference. Giving back was not just something she talked about - it was how she lived. In her final act, she continued to give by donating her body to George Washington University for medical education.
A Celebration of Life for Ann will be held at Demaine Life Celebration Center of Loudoun County.
45511 E. Severn Way, Sterling, VA 20166
June 20, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Since this is a celebration of Ann’s life, bright and flowery colors are welcome.
In lieu of flowers we would request donations on her behalf to one of her preferred charities, the American Civil Liberties Union, Heifer International, or World Central Kitchen.
