Obituary of Ann Thom Roberts

Roberts, Ann Thom Williamson / 1925 - 2014 Ann Thom Williamson Roberts, surrounded by her family, died peacefully at home on this Fourth of July. She was predeceased by Dan Roberts, her beloved husband of 68 years, parents - the Reverend and Mrs. Thom Williamson and grandson Joseph Roberts. Ann, born September 1st, 1925 was the 'apple' of her parents' eyes. Her father, a retired WWI Naval officer, and subsequently an ordained Episcopal priest instilled in his daughter a love of country, the U.S. Navy and the Episcopal Church. As a teenager in Narragansett, R.I. during WWII, she was a Civil Defense volunteer. In 1944, she met Dan Roberts at a USO dance in Narragansett. They fell in love and were married by Reverend Williamson in the spring of 1945. Only the death of Dan in December of 2013 would separate them. Ann Thom, as Dan called her, reveled in her career as mother and homemaker. She possessed a knack for acceptance of everyone, regardless of social standing and with an unshakeable attitude of 'never a stranger'. Many of her children's friends called her Mom or simply Ann as she was often regarded as a surrogate mother, and always, always, a caring friend. Ann had "almost famous" talent as a spirited pianist. Virtually every family gathering concluded with Ann playing a medley of U.S. service theme songs. The Naval Academy's 'Anchors Aweigh', the 'Marines' Hymn' and the Army's theme song were favorites; singing was always encouraged. The faith in and love of Christ, the joy of singing, the camaraderie of man, and Ann's everyday love of life are the endearing gifts she graciously bestowed upon us. Mother, you have loved and been loved - by many. Ann Thom Williamson Roberts is survived by sons Blanding D. Roberts Jr. (Melinda), Thom W. Roberts (Nannette), Sam N. Roberts III, daughter Eleanor W. Honeycutt, eight grand-children, three great grand-children, numerous extended family members and dear friends. A joyous service celebrating the life of Ann will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, July 12th at The Episcopal Church of St. Mary and St. Martha of Bethany, 4346 Ridge Road, Buford, GA 30519. Following the service, the family invites all to a reception in the Parish Hall. In commemoration of Ann, please consider a charitable gift to St. Mary and St. Martha of Bethany. To honor Ann's humanity, please share a gesture of caring love to someone, be it friend, family, or stranger. Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel 770-945-6924 Share memories of Ann at www.hamiltonmillchapel.com