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Marissa Salvesen

By: Marissa Salvesen on July 30th, 2015

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101 Years and Counting….

Stories and Spotlights

101 Years and Counting

Meet Anna May Finnucan! Anna May was born in Ansonia, Connecticut and was the oldest of seven siblings (two sisters and five brothers). 

At 101 years old, Anna May has outlived her siblings but has many nieces and nephews.

She has made Crosby Commons Independent and Assisted Living Community her home for the last 2 years and now resides on our Wesley Village Campus in Shelton, Connecticut.

Anna May was born in 1914 and has lived quite a life. She remembers when her brothers went to war and how hard life was during the Great Depression.

She recalled fond memories of attending Assumption School in Ansonia and graduating high school. She regrets not being able to attend college because of the difficult times.

Anna May worked at the American Brass Company for thirty seven years and enjoyed her work experience very much.  She would spend her days working in the office at American Brass, go home for dinner and then head off to Griffin Hospital where she volunteered many hours. She loved being able to help in the pediatric unit and hold the newborn babies.

Anna May also enjoyed traveling.  One of her most favorite places to visit was Ireland, perhaps because her ethnic background is 100% Irish.  Cape Cod, Massachusetts was also one of her favorite places to vacation. Anna May enjoys reading, knitting, crocheting and listening to the piano.  Her favorite food at Crosby Commons is meat, potatoes and vegetables.  For her breakfast she enjoys oatmeal and likes having ice cream for dessert. 

When asked if she had the chance to meet anyone in the world, Anna May confessed she would like to meet the President.  It may be her special appreciation for history and the workings of the government, along with her interest in watching historical documentaries, that brought her to this choice. Sharing a piece of advice for future generations, Anna May said simply, “Enjoy every minute of your life.” After 101 years, we think Anna May may know a thing or two about how to enjoy life, and so…. we will take her advice to heart!

Anna May was interviewed by volunteers Christina Marino and Julie Hoff. Both girls are part of Girl Scout Troop 86, of Shelton, Connecticut, and are participating in our “Resident Spotlight” project as part of their Girl Scout community project. They are currently working to earn their Silver Award. The girls thoroughly enjoyed their visit with Anna May and were in awe of her humor and kind personality. They are looking forward to many more visits at Crosby Commons….many thanks to Christina and Julie for being part of this great project!

About Marissa Salvesen

My journey into the world of senior living began when I started working for United Methodist Homes in 2010. Starting as an Activities Director at one of our-winning assisted and independent living communities and then transitioning to Marketing and Promotions Manager for UMH, I now work as the Manager of Mission Development, fostering the Mission and Values of our organization. I love sharing stories about the many ways we build meaningful relationships and enrich the lives of those we serve, and am proud to be part of building UMH’s 140-year legacy of caring. Wondering what makes our communities such special places to live and work? Connect with me and find out!

Our Blog is a 2016 Platinum Generations Award Winner! The Generations Award is an annual international competition for excellence in senior marketing recognizing professionals who have communicated to the 50+ Mature Markets.