The death has occurred of retired teacher Ann Christine Moran, who for many years played an active role in the social and charitable life of Penrith. She was 83 years old.
Born in Harrow, Middlesex, Ann was the daughter of the late Herbert John Henry and Rose Finney. She and her brother Peter spent their childhood in Pinner, Middlesex.
Ann’s secondary education was at Wycombe Abbey School where, among other achievements, she excelled in the sport of lacrosse.
Having achieved A-levels in Latin, divinity and English literature she decided against continuing her education at university in order to train as a primary school teacher at St Mary’s College, Cheltenham.
It was in Cheltenham in 1957 that she met her future husband Mike Moran, which began a partnership which went on to last for 64 years. They married at St Laurence’s Church, Eastcote, Pinner, in 1960.
Ann started her teaching career in Chelsea and after two years moved to a primary school in Baldock, Hertfordshire. This move saw the start of 12 happy years living in Royston, Hertfordshire, and the birth of Paul and Jenny. Ann then taught at Ashwell Primary School.
During these years Ann had many interests. In the sporting sphere she enjoyed swimming and fencing, and other pursuits included cross-stitch needlework, gardening, cookery and reading. In Royston she was an active member of the Ladies Circle, making many friendships which lasted through her life.
In 1973, following Mike’s appointment as head of Penrith’s Ullswater School, the family moved to the town’s Monnington Way. For a few years following this Ann taught at the old Boys’ National School, in Benson Row.
She made many new friends as a member of Penrith Ladies’ Circle and was an enthusiastic member of the town’s Inner Wheel Club.
She held the offices of secretary and treasurer of the latter on several occasions and also served as club president. She attended a number of national conferences and took part in singing groups, entertaining in care homes and hospitals.
For 18 years Ann was secretary or treasurer of the Penrith Barnardo’s Helpers Group, helping to raise several thousand pounds for the charity. She continued with her Penrith activities after moving to Acres, Watermillock, in 1979.
Following the move Ann became a member of Watermillock WI. She had a strong Christian faith and did much to support the local All Saints’ Church. A member of the parochial church council and covenant secretary, she was involved in all aspects of church life, particularly flower arranging and assisting the the church art and craft exhibition for 25 years.
Ann and Mike returned to Penrith in 2010. In the two years prior to the COVID pandemic she enjoyed attending the local Alzheimer’s group — singing for the brain and monthly coffee mornings. She was grateful for support from Sandra and local volunteers.
At the beginning of 2021 Ann suffered a fall which resulted in a hospital stay followed by transfer to the Pennine Lodge care home, in Carlisle, where she received exceptional care.
Ann’s life was devoted to concern for others and her family have been overwhelmed by the tributes they have received following her death, many saying she was a lovely lady who was always welcoming.
She is survived by her husband Mike, Penrith; son Paul, Durham; and daughter Jenny Ivinson, Penrith. She had five grandchildren, Lewis, Emily, Oscar, Eve and Felix.
The funeral service was held at St Andrew’s Church, Penrith, followed by cremation at the Eden Valley Crematorium, Temple Sowerby. Walkers Funeral Directors, Penrith, had charge of the arrangements.
