Marie Ilene Gann

Marie Ilene Gann, 97, passed away on April 18, 2024 in Charleston, SC, surrounded in her final days by the family that she so dearly loved. Marie's journey began in Phillips, Wisconsin, where she was born to Elmer and Frances (Tingo) Johnson. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and boundless dedication to her family.

A beacon of warmth and compassion, Marie was the cherished matriarch of her family, embodying the role of a devoted mother to her six children. She was the glue that held the family together, nurturing each member with unwavering love and support.

Throughout her life, Marie pursued her passions with zest and creativity. From her love of gardening to her cooking skills in the kitchen, her talents extended to acrylic painting and playing the organ in her later years. Her adventurous spirit led her to search for ancestors in Norway and to visit family in Japan and Canada. Her home was a sanctuary of love and creativity, where everyone who entered felt a warm welcome.

Marie's journey took her from the heart of Wisconsin to Washington, D.C., where she embarked on a career journey that would shape her life. At the tender age of 17, she ventured to the nation's capital to work for the FBI. Later, she found love and companionship when she worked at the Washington Navy Yard, where her coworker, Bill’s mother, set her up on a blind double date with the man that turned out to be Bill, her beloved husband. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and shared dreams.

In her community, Marie dedicated herself to various volunteer endeavors, including the American Legion Women's Auxiliary, St. John's Women's Auxiliary, St. Vincent DePaul, and serving as a docent at Middleton Plantation. While in Charleston, Marie was a devoted member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church and Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Her compassionate spirit touched the lives of many, leaving an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Marie's life was adorned with countless cherished memories, from her days playing basketball and quartet performances as a young girl to fierce gin rummy games at the kitchen table with whoever might be visiting. Even in her later years, she continued to share her love of music, recording a heartfelt rendition of "You Are My Sunshine" with her son Bob, showcasing her remarkable talent and timeless spirit.

Marie is preceded in death by her brother, Walter Johnson, her beloved husband William A. Gann, and their cherished son, William R. Gann. She is survived by five children: Patricia M. Barkley of Charleston, SC, James E. Gann (Tomoko) of Tokyo, Japan, John T. Gann (Eileen) of Mountain View, CA, Robert M. Gann (Sue) of Wake Forest, NC, and Mary C. Corder (James) of Charleston, SC. Marie's love lives on through her 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, who continue to cherish her memory.

As we bid farewell to Marie, let us celebrate a life well-lived, a legacy of love that will continue to inspire generations to come. Though she may no longer walk beside us, her presence will forever be felt in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness, grace, hugs and unwavering love. Marie's spirit will live on in the cherished memories we hold dear and the love that binds us together as family.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Marie Ilene Gann will be celebrated 11:00 AM Friday, May 3, 2024 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 5 St. Teresa Drive, Charleston. A reception will follow in Fr. McCarthy Hall at the church. The family will receive friends Thursday between 5:00 & 7:00 PM at the James A. McAlister Funeral Home, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston. The Rosary will be recited at 6:30 PM. Mrs. Gann will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at the St. Joseph Catholic Church Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Arrangements by James A McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.