Obituary: Ann D. Baker, 87, Of Ridgefield

Information and Photo Courtesy Jowdy-Kane Funeral Home

RIDGEFIELD, CT — Ann D. Baker, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on Jan. 10, 2024.

Ann was born in Wewoka, Okla., on Feb. 3, 1936, the daughter of Charles Dixon and Betty Rugh Dixon. She had an active youth with piano lessons, youth group, Camp Fire Girls, and became the first female lifeguard in her town. She attended Oklahoma University pursuing a special education degree and was a proud member of Delta Gamma. While at the university, she met James Edward Baker (Ed), and they were married on Aug. 17, 1957. They started their married life in Tulsa, moving around Oklahoma in their early years, going to Richardson, Texas, and finally settling in Ridgefield, Conn., in 1970.

Ridgefield is where they laid down roots and raised their family. Ann was involved in various town organizations over the years, including the Woman’s Club, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), a Youth Leader at First Congregational Church, a Transport Volunteer at Norwalk Hospital, as well as a member of the Retreads Motorcycle Club. Through these endeavors, she made many lifelong friends.

She is predeceased by her parents, brother, and husband and many beloved pets. Ann is survived by her two children, James Jeffrey Baker (Sandy) of Brookfield and Sherry Lynne Gervais (Paul) of Ridgefield. In addition to her children, Ann leaves behind a legacy through her five cherished grandchildren: Felicia (Annie) Baker, Allison Baker, Amanda Gervais, Andre Gervais, William (Billy) Doyle, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Ann's wisdom, warmth, and humor will forever influence and guide them.

She always had a smile and twinkle in her eye. Her mantra through life was “Love, Joy, and Laughter.” Ann loved her children, grandchildren, and had a special place in her heart for all her dogs. She enjoyed spending as much time with them as possible, all while preferably drinking an iced tea... or a margarita! Her positive outlook and joy for life created a haven and energy that drew the kids’ friends to the house through the years.

She will be missed deeply by all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

A memorial service to celebrate Ann's life will be held on Sat., Feb. 17, 2024, at the First Congregational Church of Ridgefield at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to ROAR/DAWS, Veterans, or Smile Train as those were causes dear to her heart.