Anne. U. Usher, 85, Was Long-Time Summer Visitor

Anne U. (Stankosky) Usher of Oak Bluffs died Wednesday, January 4, at Windemere Nursing Home on Martha's Vineyard. She was 85.

Anne was born and grew up in Worcester, the daughter of Joseph Stankosky and Victoria Marcewicz, who had emigrated from Russia.

She attended St. Joseph College in West Hartford, Connecticut and raised her family in Springfield after marrying John C. Usher. He died in March of 1971.

In her later years she worked for Massachusetts Mutual Insurance Company in Springfield as an underwriter for twenty-seven years until her retirement in 1997. Previously she worked as a supervisor at Marshall's Department Store also in Springfield.

She summered on the Vineyard since 1954 and became a year-round Islander in 2000 and lived between both her daughters. She enjoyed reading mystery novels and knitting.

She is survived by her two daughters, Merrianne (Casey) Sharpe and Eliza J. Usher both of Oak Bluffs; one son, John J. Usher and his wife, Joanne of Barre; eight grandchildren; one great-granddaughter and a great-grandson as yet to be born. She was predeceased by her husband and a daughter, Cicily D. Quinn.

Anne's earthly remains will be cremated and a graveside service will be held at a later date in Oak Grove Cemetery in Springfield next to her husband. Donations may be made in her memory to the Animal Rescue League, American Heart Association or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road, Oak Bluffs. Visit www.ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information