Ann Lee (Rickerd) Essex

Ann Lee Essex (Rickerd), age 90 of Defiance, peacefully passed away on August 1st at Glenn Park Senior Living Community of Defiance with her husband by her side.

She was born on January 18, 1935, to Louis and Ella (Myers) Rickerd in Defiance, Ohio. Ann graduated from DHS (Defiance High School) in 1952. On January 10th, 1954, Ann was married to George Essex of Defiance.

Ann was a member of the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where she donated much of her time serving the Rotary Club, Sunday School, and Bible School. Ann was employee of the A&W Root Beer Stand in her earlier years and was also employed at All Star Products prior to becoming a loving mother and housewife. Ann spent much of her time helping her parents care for her younger sister Rita who had spinal meningitis at an early age and became a paraplegic needing 100% total care until her passing at age 52. Ann was a natural giver and always loved assisting or giving a helping hand where needed without being asked. She always was a very outgoing "people person" who loved to stop and talk with everyone. She will be sadly missed by her family and many good friends and colleagues.

Ann is survived by her Husband George Essex; Son, Bruce Essex; grandson, Shane (Misty) Fleetwood; and two great grandchildren, Madison and Justin Fleetwood.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Rita Kay Rickerd, and her daughter Karen Sue Essex.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 7th, from 2:00 - 5:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 8th, at 11:00 am at the funeral home, with Rev. David Brobston officiating. Burial will follow the service at Defiance Riverside Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or a Charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com

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