Ann McNamara Scanlan

Ann McNamara Scanlan, retired executive, unstoppable gardener, relentless friend, and amazing matriarch, passed away all too suddenly on May 1st. Born in Chestnut Hill on Highland Avenue, baptized and educated at Our Mother of Consolation, and having completed her education with degrees from Little Flower Catholic High School for Girls and Chestnut Hill College, Ann was the epitome of a true Philadelphian. During her successful and influential career in Human Resources, Ann held leadership positions at CIGNA, PECO Energy, Kaiser Permanente, and USF&G. Ann stood out as a mentor to young career women; she was the first woman in her family to attend college and she championed the value of higher education and lifelong learning to all who sought her counsel. After "retiring," Ann turned her considerable energies to volunteer and social activities in Philadelphia. She inspired many to join her in her enthusiasm for the museums, gardens, and history of the city. Ann's passions for friends and flowers led her to work in floral design at Botanical Expressions in Flourtown and also with the elderly at Waverly Care in Gladwynne. Despite having moved 13 times in 6 different states, Ann was as dedicated and close to her children as she was to Philadelphia itself. She is survived by daughters Sara, Laurie Barkhorn (Andrew), Amy Brueckner (John) and son Jack; grandchildren Harry, Grace, Mamie, and Frank Fennimore and their father Patrick; sister Peggy Cominsky, and many treasured nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by parents Margaret and Frank, sisters Mary, Grace, and Trudy and by brothers Frank and Jerry. Friends and relatives are invited to funeral services on Saturday, May 7 at Our Mother of Consolation Church, 9 E Chestnut Hill Avenue. Visitation at the church will start at 10:00 a.m. followed by an 11:00 a.m. mass. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Ann's name be made to Little Flower Catholic High School for Girls. http://www.littleflowerhighschool.org/