Verna Ann Washington, 58, passed away on Thursday, December 9, 2021 at Wesley Long Hospital in Greensboro, NC. She was known by family and friends as Ann. On May 5, 1963, she was the youngest of 11 children born to the late Albert and Fannie Pink Willis in Washington, GA.
Ann is survived by her husband of 32 years, Dennis Washington; three sons, Antonio Terrell Banks, Brenton Alexander Washington and Drew Michael Washington; brothers Isaiah Willis (wife Maggie); Paul Willis and Charles Willis; sisters Emma Jean Senter, Lizzie Mae Willis, Gerri Johnson (husband Melvin); grandchildren Ashton Lane and Jakya May; and many loving cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws.
Ann is preceded in death by three brothers, Albert Lee Willis, Jimmy Rogers Willis, Linton Willis and one sister, Betty Ann Ferguson.
Ann graduated in 1981 from Washington Wilkes High School in Washington, GA. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from North Carolina A&T in Greensboro, NC. For the past 20 years, Ann worked as a registered nurse at Cone Health Hospital in Greensboro, NC. From her nursing career, it was evident that she cared about people.
Ann found great joy in helping others learn Bible truths. She was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on July 21, 1985 and pioneered for several years. And then she met the love of her life, Dennis Washington in Madison, WI. They were married on November 25, 1989.
Upon moving to Greensboro, Dennis and Ann attended the Lake Brandt English congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Motivated by her love for people, Ann wanted everybody to know that God’s personal name is Jehovah. So, her and Dennis learned Spanish and began attending Spanish North congregation in Greensboro. Ann centered her life around her worship. One of her goals each year when attending Bible assemblies and conventions was to meet one sister and stay in touch. As a result, she built up many lasting friendships around the world.
Besides spending time with family and friends, she enjoyed bargain shopping and traveling. Ann had a bright and energetic personality and a sense of humor. Ann will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and loyal friend.
Her solid hope in the resurrection is what helped Ann endure her illness to the end. May we all be comforted in knowing that she is in Jehovah’s memory. “Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial of tombs will hear his voice and come out …” – John 5:28, 29.
The family would like to thank everyone for the flowers, gifts, love, support and tender care shown to Ann during her illness. We appreciate you and love you all.
Visitation will be on Friday, December 17, 2021 in the Cassie Coote-Brown Memorial Chapel at the Perry C. Brown Funeral Home, 909 E. Market Street, Greensboro, NC 27401. The Memorial service will be held virtually via Zoom on Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Meeting ID 891 9279 2718. Passcode 454545.
Professional services are entrusted to Perry J. Brown Funeral service.
ann i remember from the time i met you we had some good laughs....you were always kind to me even though we didn't get to see each other a lot... i enjoyed seeing u at the conventions.....cant wait to see u again in Jehovah's new world....kim warren
I Love you Verna Ann Washington I miss you. I have never come across another woman like you, beautiful fun loving yet serious when needed. It has been a privilege to be a close friend and spiritual sister to you. Jehovah can not wait to awaken you from your deep sleep. When I read the scripture that describes the capable wife at Proverbs 31:10-31 I think of you. "There are many capable women but you, you surpass them all"(Prov. 31:29) See you in paradise my sister!
Sincerely Nicole Holt (Better known by Ann as white chocolate)
Auntie Ann. I am still in shock. You have always been there for me whenever I needed you. No questions asked, all it took was a phone call. You always knew how to keep me laughing. The love you have shown me though out my lifetime is immeasurable. I will always cherish every memory together. Had I known when you called me a few weeks ago that it was our last conversation I would have held on longer. I will remember every encouraging word, every thing you told me to accomplish and most importantly I will remember when you told me you love. I will always feel blessed to have had you as my Aunt. I will never forget you. I miss you already. My heart is broken, but I smile every time I think of you cause were such a joy. I Love you forever. Your Day 1 Sandy
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
Preserve and share memories of your loved one by creating a Forever Missed online memorial. More at Forever Missed