Services Continued......
Loving God, thank you for the life of Ann Straub McFall.
	For the ways she changed each of our lives:
		inspiring us with her integrity, 
filling our plates with shrimp and mac and cheese, 
and our ears with music and laughter, 
		and surrounding us with her relentless care and devotion.
	
We pray now for your peace.
	Help us to trust each other to share the burdens of our grief, 
		and to reach out for one another rather than withdrawing into ourselves.
	Help us to find hope in the midst of our deep sighs,
		as we feel the absence of Ann’s warm spirit
		and the pain of her loss.
We pray especially for Bob, Joe, and Michele; for Charlotte and Helen; for Erin, and Nick, Jack and Fiona, Ainsley and Bobby.
	In time, may our memories of Ann bring us joy, rising beyond our sadness.
	
We commend Ann’s spirit to you, 
		thankful for the grace that her suffering has turned to rest,
		her pain to peace.
	Hold her heart, her life, her soul in your love. 
	Amen.

Dismissal with Blessing

When the service concludes, you all are invited to share in refreshments and a time of conversation.



Services Continued.......
Who took leap after leap with Bob into business ventures that led them into worlds of cassingles, real estate, and even Italian ice. 

Some of us knew the Ann who showed up we were at our lowest. Who dropped everything and came to our doors with arms full of food and an overnight bag, ready to stay and help however long we needed her. Who walked us out of our valleys, pointing us toward laughter at the absurdity of it all, or the wonder of it all, or just the joy of being in whatever terrible thing it was, together.
nd so here we are, feeling the emptiness of her absence. A gigantic emptiness.

What I hope, and what I trust, in the midst of this loss, is that the absence will not always be what it is today. We will always miss her, and always wish she were still by our side. But, I wonder: how can we take hold of the spirit that propelled her good work in the world, and let it live in us? How can we live more fully, and laugh more heartily? How can our grief be transformed, so that we can go on to do what is right, fun, and loving, for and with those who surround us? 

I don’t know how we will. But I know that we will. And that Ann will believe in us, all the way.

Remembrances
Members of Ann’s community and family will now offer their remembrances of Ann. Afterward, others are invited to share your brief remembrances by stepping forward and sharing at the podium. And if I may… I know that this room is full of politicians and public figures, and that means we could hear lots of interesting ten-minute speeches. But today, I kindly invite you to share your brief remembrances, so that we can hear many of them.

Community 
Lisa Lewis 
Frank Bruno 
Big John 
Family
	Michele
	Bobby
	Ainsley
	Joe


Service Continued......
Ann Straub McFall
Some of us knew the Ann who went to mortuary school and got her funeral director’s license, in support of Bob as he followed his path. Who went on to pursue her own path in accounting, setting up her first office in the front room of the home they shared. Who sent Bob out on sign duty, traveling the 120 miles around the county to hit every precinct, one by one. Who built a life-long partnership with Bob, always standing with him to help him reach his goals, knowing that he was right beside her to help her reach her own.

Some of us knew the Ann who locked arms with a squad of other strong women in Deltona, seeing things that were overlooked and refusing to let them be overlooked for another minute. Who decided, along with Pat Northey, Mary Mead, Alice Cross, and others, that public schools and roads would be different if they had anything to say about it. Who went on to earn and claim a seat at so many tables, using her voice to advocate for what was fair and just. Who didn’t flinch, ever, because she was so centered in her motivations. Who didn’t make change because she wanted recognition, but because she always wanted to do what was right. 
rcely defended what she believed in and who she loved. Who exchanged the saltiest words with you, but two days later, laughed with you about it over lunch.

Some of us knew the Ann who saw something in us that we didn’t see in ourselves yet. Who granted us responsibility we didn’t know we could take on. Who recognized our growth with respect and affirmation, never condescension, since she knew all along that we would grow right into the shoes waiting before us to be filled.

Some of us knew the Ann who believed so strongly in fairness that she self-financed much of her own campaigns, not wanting to be beholden to others’ interests. Who managed the books of stucco guys and lawn care people in the building boom of Deltona.

Ann Straub McFall Memorial Service
May 1, 2021 11 am
Opening Music	
Concluding with Perfect, Ed Sheeran
Gathering and Greeting

Welcome, friends. After more than a year of coping with isolation, disconnection, and grief, here we are together. And I think we all know that if anyone could have brought this crowd together, it was Ann Straub McFall. 

We are here today because of love. We loved Ann, and we know how much she loved us–even those of us who fell under her steely gaze from time to time. We love Ann’s family, who, amidst her very public life, were her solace and her home. And we love how Ann consistently called out the best in us–urging us through her words and example to be the best we could be, as people, and as a community. 

Welcome, friends, as we honor Ann’s life and memory with our love.

Prayer
	Let us be still in the presence of God. 
	Creating God, we thank you for the gift of life:
	For the beauty of life on this earth, with its tides and its currents, 
		its croaks and its songs, its sunrises and sunsets. 
	For the miracles of each beating heart in this room,
		and the ways they fill up the lives of others.
	And especially today we thank you for the life of Ann Straub McFall,
		whose life was a gift to us and so many in our community and this world.
	Sustain us with hope; grant us trust; hold us in your love as we remember Ann 
                 and celebrate her life with us.
	Amen.

Words of Hope 

Some of us knew the Ann who grew up near the ocean. Who sang as a child in the church choir, and spent her youth steeped in the smell of saltwater, skim boarding on the beach, and hanging out with friends. Who piled into a Volkswagen Beetle one day along with seven other friends, finding a seat on Bob’s lap as they dizzyingly spun around the traffic circle at the foot of the Seabreeze Bridge. Who got married on Thanksgiving Day in a packed-out church, just weeks after she turned 18. 
Some of us knew the Ann who went to mortuary school and got her funeral

Ann will be missed by so many. She has been a stalwart in the community for decades.  Through her years of public service she touched so many lives making a positive difference for school children, citizens, and voters.  Her accolades are many.  But I will always remember her kind and caring heart most. 
The Ann McFall who was the only one to welcome a new face to an advisory meeting at the Junior High when I arrived with a stroller and 3 children in tow. 
The Ann McFall who on one Spring day in 2013 came to visit me at Emory in Atlanta during one of the most horrific times of my life. Such a welcome face when that elevator door opened! 
The Ann McFall(with Bob) who so generously gave us the use of their condo in Atlanta for 6 months. We could not have survived without such incredible kindness and generosity.
The Ann McFall who was always on the other end of the phone whenever I needed to vent or seek advice after following in her footsteps to the school board. She was a wise sage.
The Ann McFall who is mother to one of my daughter's dear friends and the times they spent together and the memories made. 
Ann will never be forgotten either publicly or privately. Her legacy is her beautiful family, and decades of stellar public service. We are incredibly grateful to have known her, for how she touched our lives, and to call her friend. We wish her all the peace she so deserves.
Much love and deep sympathy to her beloved family. Hoping for your comfort and peace.


Ann always took my phone calls. She was always such a good sounding board. She was a public servant because she truly cared. I was so blessed to have known her and to be able to call her my friend. Throughout my years of auditing the county, it was always my intent to make her proud she'd ever recommended me. She always showed flawless integrity and I tried to do the same. Often when presented with difficult scenarios I'd think, " what would Ann do?".  I so hope she was as proud of me as I was of her. Please accept  my sincere sympathy for your tremendous loss. I loved her. There will never be another like her( although I think  her oldest granddaughter might surpass whatever political aspirations Ann ever had!) The McFall family is in my thoughts and prayers.   With Love,  Bernadette

To the McFall Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. It was a pleasure having Ms. Ann as our patient. Sincerely Dr. Barnard & Staff, Florida Retina  Institute

You're in my thoughts. Let the memories of your loved one bring comfort in times of darkness. Give your voice onto the lord and know that he will guide you through.  With Sympathy, Dr. Courtney St. James and Staff

Bob,  Simply know that there are many people who are thinking of you at this difficult time. Prayers & good thoughts sent out to you and your family.  Barbara

One Life lived, Many Lives touched.  Your loss will be felt by many hearts. With deepest sympathy. The Office of the Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections

Bob,  May the same God who has welcomed your loved one home, keep you in His care through this difficult time. So sorry for your loss.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Nancy

Bob & Family,  May memories of happy times you shared help ease your loss and bring comfort to you now. Thank You for sharing Ann with the Elections Community. May your memories comfort you every day. Our Prayers are with you.  Bill Cowles SOE , Orange County

Wishing you comfort , peace, memories. With many thoughts and deepest sympathy.   As SOE of Collier County I have many fond memories of Ann, I am so sorry.  Jennifer Edwards, SOE

At this difficult time may you find comfort knowing that others share in your sorrow. So very sorry about Ann, Love Gene and Judi

Hoping that the comforting thoughts of friends and family will surround you at this time.   Your Rotary Family

Our Thoughts are with you and your family at this time of sorrow. Friends in the Taylor County Supervisor of Elections Office

Bob, Michele, Joe & family,
You are in our  thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for your loss. Ann was a wonderful lady and friend. She did more for this county than most will ever know. She will be missed.  John & Barbara

Dear Bob  Thinking of you during this sad time. Ann was a force of nature! We will miss her. Sent with a big hug-  Joni Hunt

Bob & Family, Two vivid memories come to mind. The first was Ann's sense of humor- It kept us all laughing. And the second was the time that a bunch of us went to the Deltona Inn after a Jr. Woman's club meeting. We were asked to leave the lounge as we were having " to much fun "!  Ann kept us laughing the whole time. You and your family are in my prayers.  Peggy Fisher

We are sorry for your loss. Annie was the best.  Doug & Mary

Dear Bob, I was so sad to learn of Ann's passing.  I know this has been a difficult year for you. Ann lives on in my memories of her vibrancy and command at the Elections commission, especially her loving devotion to her children and grandchildren.  My deepest condolences,  Andrea

No one knew her like you. No one loved her like you. The strength and character of a fine woman like Ann is immeasurable.  Her devotion to community and goodness for others rises above us and sprinkles everlasting peace. , Thinking of you,   Ruth  and  Mark 

We are so sorry to hear of Ann's passing. Keeping you & your family in our thoughts & prayers.

Dear Bob, Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your wife. Although I never had the privilege  of working with her directly, I have heard only the highest praise for her character which was dedicated to Volusia County. There is no doubt that her passing will be a great loss to all that knew her. 
Will Roberts, Volusia County Tax Collector

Bob, Charlotte, Helen
Even though I haven't see you all in years there is always our memories of childhood. I am sure Ann will rest in peace. So sorry for your loss. I always liked Ann, life takes  you to different places.

Dear Bob, I am so sorry to have read about Ann. Charlotte & I were friends during our school days, Martha Jane Wood, class of 1969.  I pray you and your family are doing well, at least, as well as could be expected under the circumstances. I've included you and your family in my daily prayers.  Ann was such a wonderful person & shared herself with so many. My love to Ann's' sisters & families

I was so sorry to hear of her passing. She was our fearless leader while in  the Deltona Jr. Women's Club.  As a friend a small group of us always planned fun events and parties. At 30 something we all thought the world will be conquered by us of just Deltona. Remembering all those fun times forever. God Rest her soul.

Ann was a wonderful lady and friend. She gave so much to Volusia County and Deltona. She will be missed. 

So sorry to hear about Ann's passing. Condolences to you, Bob, and the rest of the family.

So sorry. From the early Deltona days when the only 20-30 somethings in town could get together in a small living room to the Deltona of today. Ann has been there and doing all she (and Bob) could do for Deltona. The best to Bob and your family. Hold on to your memories of Ann's  life well served.

Dear Bob and family, our deepest Sympathies in the loss of your beautiful wife, mother and grandmother......Annie sure was loved and your memories will bring joy to your hearts forever.

Ann was an inspiration to  many through her years of service to Volusia County.  Her sense of humor was amazing.  She could always bring a smile or laughter to whomever she was with.  She will not be forgotten.

Time flies. Seems like yesterday when Ann and Lynn got the kids off to school then went home and celebrated with Cold Duck. And then at the Jr Women’s fashion show Bob could only tie my tie if I laid down. She made sure Joey (then) had his Kleenex on the soccer field in case his nose ran. Lots of good times growing up with our kids.  Ann was a great humanitarian. She worked everywhere and always with a smile on her face. RIP

OBITUARY

Ann E. McFall

October 20, 1952 – April 26, 2021

Deltona Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens

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