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Anne carried forward a legacy of deep familial devotion and enduring love.

Anne Gard, born on May 17, 1920, in Chicago, Illinois, departed this world on August 16, 2026, after gifting her family and friends with more than a century of kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support. Her passing leaves a gentle hush on those fortunate enough to have known her, a stillness that echoes with memory and gratitude.

From the bustling heart of Chicago, Anne grew into a woman whose graceful presence and quiet fortitude were the cornerstone of her family. The daughter of John Bredimus and Chatherine Waltener Bredimus, and sister to Joseph, Elizabeth Barnes, and Theresa Bobek—all of whom preceded her in death, Anne carried forward a legacy of deep familial devotion and enduring love.

Anne was known by all as a source of gentleness and kindness. She possessed the rare gift of listening, hearing not just words but the spaces in between them, and offering understanding rather than judgment. Her warmth radiated through her home and into the lives of those she met.

Her journey was one marked not only by steadfastness but by vision. Anne carved out a distinguished career as a Payroll Administrator with Western Electric Company, now known as AT&T. Organized and attentive, she inhabited a world of numbers and efficiency, bringing order and reliability to her colleagues and her workplace. Still, her ambitions reached far beyond her professional life, Anne exhibited an entrepreneurial spirit ahead of her time. Alongside her beloved husband, they became some of the original “house flippers,” breathing new life into homes: purchasing, renovating, and selling, then uprooting and beginning anew, each move a testament to her adaptability, creativity, and drive to provide for her family.

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Her passions blossomed long into her later years.

She was the steadfast partner who stood with her husband as he returned to college at night in pursuit of his degree—a silent hero, holding steady the foundation upon which dreams can be built. Their shared work ethic and commitment ensured a home filled with laughter, opportunity, and encouragement. Anne was a great provider, her efforts essential to the well-being and the growth of her children.

Family was always Anne's central joy. She is survived by her loving daughter Judy Gard, devoted son John Gard (Tammy), cherished grandson Alex Gard and close family friend, Tammy Daane. She is also survived by her nieces, Sandra Smith, Gloria Ostrand, Tami Lehigh, Florine Barnes and April Zazula. Each holds close her memory: her careful, uplifting reminders, like her lovingly offered farewell, “Be careful and don't pick up any strangers,” which rings with protection and humor. Anne believed deeply in kindness, sharing daily reminders such as, “If you can’t say anything nice, say nothing at all,” words that became a guiding principle for those around her.

Her passions blossomed long into her later years. With keen hands and an artist’s heart, Anne immersed herself in crafts, painting, and drawing, projects that infused her home with color and imagination. Even into her nineties, she could still be found on the golf course, swinging away against time, ever eager to engage with life in all its forms.

Anne leaves behind so much more than a chronology of years; she leaves the imprints of gentleness and strength, of listening ears and generous hands, of a home transformed not just by renovations but by the grace that lived within its walls. Her family and friends will gather their memories like treasures, holding them close: reminders of a life remarkably well-lived and a love that continues without end.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Combee Connection Ministries & Church, 1140 N. Combee Road, Lakeland, FL 33801 or by visiting Combee Connections Donations .