Obituary of Annie Elizabeth Reilly
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Annie ‘Anne’ Elizabeth (née Dyer) Reilly, a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in Invermere, British Columbia. Born on January 4, 1928, in Keswick, Ontario, Anne, though petite in stature, was formidable in words and deeds. She lived a life filled with love and faith, profoundly impacting all who knew her.
During her childhood and adolescence, Anne demonstrated an energetic and proactive nature that was challenging for both her parents and educators. In the classroom, she was diligent in completing her own assignments promptly and always eager to assist her classmates. Her dedication to helping others extended to her home life, where she assisted her parents by playing surrogate mother to her often-mischievous younger brothers.
Academically, Anne excelled, earning cherished annual rewards of summer stays with her aunt and uncle in Stratford, Ontario. Additionally, it is notable that Anne was an accomplished pianist who garnered numerous medals in competitions across Southern Ontario.
Anne was united in marriage to Wilmot ‘Bill’ Bertram Reilly on September 20, 1947, sharing an extraordinary fifty years together until his passing on April 8, 1998. Anne exemplified the qualities of a loving wife, building their union on mutual respect and unwavering support—a partnership that inspired family and friends alike.
Together, they raised two sons: Arthur Paul (Vivian) and David Robert (Mary-Lynn), both of whom have continued their parents' legacy of service and dedication to church and family. As a mother, Anne guided her sons with kindness and wisdom, instilling values of compassion and integrity.
Anne's legacy extends beyond her immediate family: she was a cherished grandmother to David and Mary-Lynn’s three children, Kristin (Jesse), Ashley (David) and Andrew (Nicole), and great-grandmother to Aidan, Ivan, Lincoln, Logan, Lachlan, and Ryan; and beloved grandmother to Arthur and Vivian’s two sons, Thomas (Tessa) and Benjamin, and great-grandmother to Layla and Nora.
Raised by parents Lulu Mae (née Lepard) Dyer and Robert ‘Bob’ Dyer, Anne, who was predeceased by brothers Robert ‘Bob’ Emmerson (Doreen) and James ‘Jim’ Dennis (June), learned early the significance of family bonds, which guided her throughout her life. She is survived by her sister-in-law June, who remains part of this enduring legacy.
Anne served her church communities with dedication for many years, both as Deacon and Elder, and at Invitation to Live Ministries under Reverend Marney Patterson’s leadership. Her commitment to her faith extended beyond church walls through mission work, where she shared God's love with those around her.
As we say farewell to this remarkable woman whose spirit radiated joy even amidst life's challenges, we take comfort knowing that Anne has finally heard the long-awaited words: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Though our hearts ache from this loss, the impact she made will forever resonate within us all.