It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ann Smith Wilson Brewster, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and faithful servant of the Lord. Ann was called home to be with her Savior on January 25, 2025, at the age of 90.
Ann was born on March 17, 1934, in Coalsnaughton, Scotland, to the late James and Catherine McNeil. Raised in a Christian household, she was a woman of unwavering faith and a true reflection of God’s love and grace. God called her into ministry as a pastor’s wife. She left her beloved Scotland to serve in Wales, where her first two children, Iain and Alison, were born. She immigrated to Saskatchewan, Canada, in 1968, and this is where her last child, Dale, was born. In 1971, God called her to Helena, Montana, and she lived there for five years. She was finally led to St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1975. Upon arriving there, she stated she knew she was “home” and remained there until her passing.
Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to serving Jesus and others through her work within the church. Ann spent 56 years teaching in various children’s church programs. She was a cherished member of Suncoast Cathedral and in her later years loved attending Silver Saints events and offering a listening ear to those in need. Ann was a prayer warrior, always inspiring others to trust in God’s plan and timing. Her life motto was Proverbs 3:5-6; Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Ann was a light to everyone around her, especially her family. She was a devoted mother to her children at every stage of their lives. Her granddaughters adored her, and the great-grandchildren loved hearing her tell them stories in her Scottish accent, which she never lost! She told her family that her recipe for happiness was J.O.Y. — Jesus first, Others second, Yourself last — and she truly lived that life and encouraged them to do the same.
Ann leaves behind her beloved children, Iain, Alison (John), and Dale; grandchildren, Alana (Brett), Krista (Samuel), Carolyn (Daniel) and Ivana; and great-grandchildren, Rowan, Raylin, Knox, Hugo, Camden, Jameson, Charlotte, and Landon. She is also survived by many dear cousins and extended family members with whom she loved staying in touch through email, as well as numerous friends, including her cherished friend Audrey, whom she considered a sister.
Ann’s memorial service will be held at Suncoast Church, 2300 62nd Avenue North, Saint Petersburg, Florida on Friday February 7th, 2025, at 2:00 pm.
We take comfort in knowing that Ann is now in the presence of the Lord, surrounded by His everlasting peace and one day we will be reunited with her again.
Suncoast Church
Dr Stan and Judy Pierce
January 29, 2025, 3:33 pm
Ann was a cherished friend for most of our lives. She was part of our fun girlfriend group, with Audrey, for many years teaching us things like how to wear your hat properly tipped to the right! We all adored her!! Much love from Stan and Judy Pierce
Ps. Loved loved subjects like family and teaching us how to properly do a tea party. She will be missed here but we will join her on a swing in Heaven
Barnes Burseth Families
January 29, 2025, 6:08 pm
We are so sorry for the loss of your mom. She was always friendly and fun to talk with when she was at the lake. Thinking of our lake cousins! Much Love 💕
Sandy and Larry Kellogg
January 30, 2025, 9:20 am
We know how much you will miss your Mom, grandmother and great-grandmother, but as she must have told you, she is now with her Savior, Jesus Christ. Our family knew her well at Suncoast Cathedral and for several years I was able to work with her at the church. I always appreciated her stories and her deep personal faith. She walked her talk with a lovely Scottish sense of humor. Sorry we can not attend her memorial service, but we moved to Tennessee last year. We will pray in the days ahead for comfort, peace and joy in remembering all the wonderful times you spent with her. Much love to all.
Ann & Ted Robertson
January 30, 2025, 10:42 am
I will miss my regular emails from Anna and only received my last one on Saturday when she was on checking we were all safe here in Scotland after the storm, Just like her. I so looked forward to hearing how all the family was and getting regular pictures of everyone. She was so proud of each and every one of you.
Anna will be missed by more people than you can imagine.
Safe in the arms of Jesus.
Shalah Dobson
January 30, 2025, 12:08 pm
I am so sorry for your earthly loss of your mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. I remember her being such a gracious lady. It was always inspiring when she led chapel services at St. Petersburg Christian School. May the peace of God bring you comfort.
Carol Schaad
January 30, 2025, 1:20 pm
We were on staff at Suncoast with Ann. I helped in the early service Children’s Church which she taught. Ann was quiet in her opinions, but always stood up for what she believed. Ann was a Silver Saint during the time Leland led the Monday morning fellowship. Several winters we stayed with Ann for a couple weeks. Always hospitable, gracious, and helpful. Since moving to Iowa, Ann was my e-mail friend connection to St Petersburg. I am grateful that she did not suffer but woke up in heaven. Condolences to the family Iain, Allison, Dale and grand and great grands.
samuel olson
January 31, 2025, 4:30 pm
Dear Allison,
Nancy and I – Samuel – extend our love and support to you at this time.
We are in Caracas, and will keep you and all of your daughters along with John, in our prayers.
Our hope our eternal hope, is our joy.
Nancy and Sam
Gill Campbell
February 1, 2025, 5:49 am
Anna and my mum Andrina were cousins and grew up together in Coalsnaughton. They always kept in touch through the years. When my mum became ill a few years ago and was no longer able to email, I kept in touch with Anna, letting her know how my mum was doing, and I would read Anna’s kind messages and blessings to my mum and show her the photos she sent of her trips to Wisconsin and wonderful family events. My mum sadly passed away just over a year ago but I kept in touch with Anna and really enjoyed getting her emails and family news. She was an amazing lady with a beautiful soul. My condolences to Iain, Alison and Dale and all their families. Love to all x
Cindy Brant
February 1, 2025, 1:33 pm
Billy and Cindy Brant I loved and very much she was a sweetheart and she had become a very dear friend of mine and our Sunday school class and she will solely be missed.
John Michael McNamara
February 3, 2025, 6:10 am
God must have needed a good soul. He took Ann from us.
We here at Trafalgar Square Condominium Association will miss her ready smile and wit so much.
The tears that come to my eyes are always accompanied by a smile of recognition of her personal beauty and personality.
I remember the times she “air mailed” condo documents to me by sailing them off her balcony down to me waiting below. She always gave me a thumbs up. And I remember watching her pull her little white car into her carport with my fingers crossed and holding my breath.
We do miss you, Ann, so dearly.
Christine Smith
February 5, 2025, 5:46 am
Ms Ann was a gracious First Lady of Suncoast Cathedral and her Scottish wit was charming. She was one of a kind. I know Iain, Allison, Dale and all the family will miss her wisdom and heartfelt support and love.
Larry and Christine Smith
Dennis and Jan Moffitt
February 6, 2025, 4:59 pm
Our prayers and heartfelt condolences are with you all..Den and I were so sad when we heard…Ann was so very special to us during the early years when we were serving with them at Suncoast… so many treasured memories and spiritual growth came during that time. We will always remember the stories and the beautiful readings Ann shared.. her faithfulness to the Lord in all she did is a great tribute to her. We remember you all and keep you in our thoughts and prayers..Denny and Jan