Anona H. Kirkland, 100, Was a Notable Citizen

Anona Holloway Kirkland died peacefully Jan. 18 in her beloved country, Panama. She was 100 years old.

She was born in Hartford, Conn. on August 13, 1904. Anona had a varied career living and working in North America, Central America and Europe. She was best know on the Vineyard from her work with the telephone company and the Vineyard Gazette and from her residence in the little red house on D.H.'s Hill on the way to Menemsha.

She was a woman of many talents and interests. Music was a vital part of her life. While enrolled in pre-med at Brown University in Providence, R.I. she was also studied the organ. When she moved to Panama she became organist for St. Lukes Cathedral and also played at the various chapels on the canal's military bases.

Anona studied Spanish at Panama University. This skill opened the door to a position in journalism at the Panama Star and Ledger. There she wrote the women's page for 45 years.

Anona participated in many women's organizations including the Inter-American Women's Club, the Soroptimist Club, the Canal Zone Historical Society and the Women's College Club. These organizations were responsible for helping the people of Panama. They established schools in poor villages. They built the Asilo (a nursing home) and they sent many children to the United States for corrective or life-saving treatment.

Anona was a gray lady at Gorgas Hospital and worked at the Well Baby Clinic in Balboa.

Anona has received numerous awards for her outstanding contributions to public life. On Jan. 17, she was recognized as a "Notable Citizen" by the commission for civic and moral values, the highest award granted by the civic clubs of the Republic of Panama. She was also awarded the Silver Service award and the Key to the Locks of the Panama Canal for community service.

In addition she was honored for over 40 years of improving relationships between the U.S. and Panama by the American Society of Panama.

Anona is survived by her son, William, and her daughter, Jessie Firth Sandifer, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.