Ann Layman Gooch
Ann Layman Gooch, 83, of Keswick, Va., passed away Monday, September 4, a remarkable 8 years after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. With that gifted time, she was able to watch her grandchildren become beautiful adults and grow old with her devoted husband of 63 years. She is predeceased by him, Harry Gordon (Pete) Gooch of Keswick; her parents Don and Bertha Layman of Crozet; brother Benjamin Layman of Crozet; sister-in-law Margaret Turner of Charlottesville; and brother-in-law William Parker of Scottsdale, Ariz. She leaves behind daughters Della Vache of Frederick, Md.; Anita Schrunk (Tony) of Glen Allen, Va.; son Neil Gooch (Michelle) of Keswick; her brother Frank Layman (Betty) of Charlottesville; and sister-in-law Mildred Parker of Scottsdale, Ariz. She was a fabulous “Nana” to Andrew and Julia Vache; Claire, Carter, and Caden Schrunk; Kirsten Frazier; Brooke Deane; Skyler Breeden; and Forest Gentry.
Ann was born on January 1, 1940, ringing in the New Year as the first baby born in Charlottesville, Va., and grew up a tomboy among her two brothers. Her fiery red hair matched her attitude and sense of adventure. She enjoyed dancing, and met future husband, Pete, at a community dance hall. Ann taught at Oakland School in Troy, where she touched many students’ lives. In retirement, she discovered a hidden talent for painting and inspired us all with her newfound hobby. She was a huge sports fan, and nothing was better than a Saturday filled with college football or basketball. If UVA was playing, the day was even better. She was a member of Beaver Dam Baptist Church, and there formed enduring friendships that meant the world to her.
The family will welcome friends and relatives at Hill and Wood funeral home in Charlottesville on Saturday, September 16, from 4–6 p.m. Funeral service will be held Sunday, September 17, at 2:00 p.m. at Beaver Dam Baptist Church in Troy, with reception following.
Condolences may be shared with her family on the Tribute Wall.