Ann S. Sears

Ann Sargent Peabody Sears died Tuesday, June 24, 2025. She was born on July 17, 1928, in Gloucester, MA, to Samuel S. and Helen C. Peabody. Ann grew up in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA, and Wenham, MA. She graduated from Beverly High School and Gibbs School of Secretarial and Executive Training in Boston. She and her best friend from school, Blanche Murray, decided to have an adventure and move to Sacramento, CA. While in Sacramento, she met a young man, Edward H. Sears, from Lancaster, PA stationed at Mather Air Force Base. They were married June 29, 1952, with Blanche as her bridesmaid. Ann and Ed's loving and working partnership aided in a successful almost 24 year military career that took them and their children to many postings in the USA and overseas, including Spain and Germany. Ann worked as a secretary, both before and after marrying Ed, and once again when their children were grown. Ed attained the rank of Chief Master Sargent. Ed and Ann retired from their military career in 1973 and settled in Ed’s hometown of Lancaster, PA. They were married for 42 years until Ed passed away November 3, 1994. Ann was a faithful member of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd since 1974. She volunteered for the Altar Guild, and participated in Senior Shepherd activities. She moved to Luther Acres Retirement Community in Lititz, PA 6 years after Ed’s passing. Ann loved to knit and made many articles of clothing for her family, and in later years made many afghans, prayer shawls, and lap blankets for donations. She also made many beautiful counted cross-stitch pieces that were framed and given to family. She loved to read, travel, and occasionally spend an hour or two in a casino, playing the slots. But her favorite place was always where she could enjoy sea air, sand, salt water, and the sun. Walking on the beach was a great joy of her life. Ann was predeceased by her parents, her brother Samuel S. Peabody III, and sisters Joan Granger and Edna Peabody. She is survived by her children, Edward H. Sears, David F. Sears, and daughter-in-law Nina Katsuko Sears, and Catherine A. Sears, her grandchildren Suzie, Cindy, and Andy, her great-grandchildren Sophia, Austin, Kyrra, and Logan, and her great-great-great-grandchild Athena. Ann worked hard and took pride in keeping a lovely home. The only family member easily forgiven for making a mess was the family dog, Fritz, a beloved Beagle who followed her all through the house to keep her company. Ann struggled with physical and cognitive decline that started in her 90's. It brought challenges, including moving from her Independent Living cottage to a Memory Care apartment, and then Skilled Nursing. But she showed tremendous spirit and resilience, and thanks to the kind and caring staff at Luther Acres and Caring Hospice, she persevered as long as she was able. She was kind, loving, and will be missed greatly. We love you, Mom. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ann's memory to the Water Street Rescue Mission at PO Box 7508, Lancaster PA 17604-7508.