Anna Marie Pridgen with life companion Terry O’Donnel at Crazy Horse Monument in South Dakota

Anna Marie Pridgen, 66, devoted wife, mother of four, step-mother of two and grandmother of eight and the only friend I have in the world, truly my one love, passed away in her sleep after years of battling cancer on July 7, 2009. She left to be with her Lord while sleeping comfortably in her home, in her favorite chair.

Ann, as she preferred to be called, was born Dec. 21, 1942 to Jack and Jeane Montgomery. She joined the U.S. Army in 1962, where she met and married Charles Pridgen. They had four children: Janice, David, Carl and Spencer. After her beloved husband passed away, she met her life’s companion, Terry O’Donnell. Together, they called themselves “an old pair of shoes.” They loved to travel and with this came their love and respect for the Crazy Horse Monument in South Dakota.

With Terry, came his two children: Shawn and Jamie and their five children. Each one of them were blessed to have such a positive and generous heart come into their lives.

Ann was a friend to all and had a positive disposition throughout her ordeal. She never hesitated to help someone in need and she will be remembered fondly by everyone who had met her. Her final years, though painful to see by her children, Terry and friends, were faced by her with the same positive outlook and infectious enthusiasm she had toward every moment. She demonstrated this enthusiasm in everything she encountered throughout her life. No obstacle or problem got in her way. Ann was the kindest, most honest, loving human being we have ever known.

She fought Multiple Myeloma for five long years. Her battle with cancer did not ever dampen her spirits or her desire to improve the life of everyone she met. It only made her appreciate the little moments that come in life and the comfort of family. For this she is admired and loved.

Memorial services will be held at their home, Saturday, July 18 at 2 p.m. at 340 A Hungry Hollow Rd., Oroville. This will be a country-style, home-cooked potluck gathering, just the way she wanted it. Please bring a chair and your favorite dish. On your drive to their home, please stop and pick any wild flowers you see, instead of purchasing flowers. Memorials can be made to: Crazy Horse Memorial, Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, SD 57730-9506. E-mail gifts@korczaksheritage.com (605) 673-4681.