Anne Washbourne Donovan Garrett, aged 89, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sept. 9 in Nashua, New Hampshire, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and adventure. She was born on April 1st, 1934, in Douglaston, New York, and her life was characterized by her boundless spirit and enthusiasm for life.
Anne is survived by her husband A.Cope Garrett, her five children from her first marriage to Joe Donovan: James of Moretown, Vermont; Elizabeth of Portland, Connecticut; Kate (John) of Westwood, Massachusetts; John (Patricia) of Southport, Connecticut; and Joanne of Nashua, New Hampshire (fiancé Steve), her nine grandchildren, Kenna, Seth, Kerry, Jack, Joey, Juliette, William, Katie, Erin, and her beloved sister, Lynn, her devoted brother and sister- in- law, Bob and Kay, and three step-sons Charlie, Ethan and Evan Garrett.
Born to John and Eleanor Washbourne, Anne grew up in Douglaston, New York. She embarked on an academic journey, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy from Mount Holyoke College and Master’s degrees from both Harvard (School of Education) and St. Joseph College (Catholic ministry). Anne’s education was a reflection of her curiosity and dedication to knowledge.
In her earlier years, Anne shared her life with her late husband, Joe Donovan. Together, they raised five children: The love and guidance she provided to her children and grandchildren will forever remain in their hearts.
Anne’s life took another chapter when she found love once again, marrying her childhood sweetheart, Cope Garrett. Her love story expanded to include her step-children, Charlie, Ethan, and Evan, enriching her family connections even further.
Anne was an avid athlete throughout her life, a testament to her determination and active spirit. Following her graduation from Mount Holyoke, she and her friend ventured to California, found jobs and lived in Santa Barbara for two years. She taught at an elementary school there and she decided she wanted to continue in the field of education.It was during her time at Harvard University, studying education, that she met Joe, being an active member of the Massashushers Ski Club, enjoying a sport that continued to bring her joy throughout her life. As a nationally ranked Alpine ski racer in the late 50’s, Anne’s prowess on the slopes was legendary. Tennis was another passion that she pursued relentlessly; from her childhood home in Douglaston to coaching and climbing the amateur ranks, tennis remained a constant in her life.
Anne’s talents extended beyond the realm of sports. She was a talented piano player and singer, sharing her melodious voice with audiences across prestigious venues. She sang with the Handel and Haydn Society, gracing the stage of Carnegie Hall. Additionally, she was a member of the Hartford Chorale at the Bushnell and found joy in singing within church choirs wherever she worshiped throughout her life.
Those who knew Anne remember her as a loving mother, sister, wife, and friend to so many, with an insatiable appetite for adventure.She always had a strong faith in God and a positive outlook on life which kept her consistently full of love and joy and always ready to give words of encouragement to everyone. Her globetrotting experiences took her to places that others only dream of, including being launched from a raft in class 5 rapids on the Zambezi River.Her zest for life was truly infectious.
Anne Washbourne Donovan Garrett’s memory will be cherished by her family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her indomitable spirit, unwavering love, and adventurous soul will forever inspire those who were touched by her presence. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts and memories of all who had the honor of sharing her journey.
The wake will be at Molloy Funeral Home, 906 Farmington Ave. West Hartford, CT 06119, visiting hours 5-8 pm, Fri., Sept. 15. Funeral will be at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 872 Farmington Ave. West Hartford, CT 06119 Sat. Sept 16, 10:00. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery after the funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, https://www.alz.org/ Directions and online expressions of sympathy may be made at www. molloyfuneralhome.com