Jacklyn ‘Ann’ Parish

“Ann,” as she insisted on being called, was born in Monroe, Louisiana on February 7, 1933, daughter of Jack Benson and Jean Benson. She moved to Texas where she met her husband, Thomas Parish. She would always say that she was born in a Parish, lived in a Parish and married a Parish. Ann and her husband spent many decades in Houston, Texas where Ann worked as an attendance clerk at schools in the Houston area. They later moved to Marquette, Michigan to be with family.

Ann always loved their family dogs and parakeets; in more recent years, she especially enjoyed the company of her great grand-dogs, Penny and Buck. Ann never lost her southern accent or charm, even after living in Michigan for many decades. She was quite the spitfire and was not afraid to let others know her opinion.

We will remember Ann as a lover of books. She was a habitual lifelong reader, she never went anywhere without a book in her hand. She enjoyed fiction and historical non-fiction. She especially enjoyed her volunteer days at Peter White Library. Ann was also a talented watercolor artist and had an eye for color and design. She loved painting the birds and flowers that brought her so much, joyroses and sunflowers being her favorites. She was particularly fond of live music; one would usually find her taping her feet away and singing along. Above all else, she loved dark chocolate. She passed down this trait to many of her family members.

Ann’s years at Mill Creek Assisted Living provided her with so much happiness- bingo being her favorite activity! Ann loved connecting with others and creating new friendships. Her smile, feisty spirit, and southern accent will always be remembered.

Ann is survived by her son, Tom Parish (Donna Lipman) of Austin, daughter Patti (Tom) Tourville of Marquette, her brothers Jan (Joan) Benson of Virginia and Jerry (Patsy) Benson of Texas, along with grandchildren Katie Tourville, Dennis Tourville, Lauren (Ryan) Foresman, Justin (Juliet) Dill and Lily (David) Chambers and many great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Thomas H. Parish.

We would like to thank Mill Creek Assisted Living for being our second family, providing endless support, and being present every step of the way. The value of their friendship and support cannot be overstated. Lake Superior Hospice was also so helpful and compassionate throughout Ann’s final days.

Honoring the family’s request, services will be private.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Ann’s passing, please consider donating to the Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front Street, Marquette, MI 49855.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com