Anna Naomi Root

Anna Naomi Root, a cherished matriarch, and beacon of love, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2024, in Englewood, Florida. Born on July 8, 1931, in Endicott, New York, Anna's life was a testament to her loving, kind, and faith-filled spirit. She leaves behind a tapestry of memories, woven with the threads of devotion to her family and her community.

Anna's life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her family. She was a beloved mother to Yvenna (Malcolm) Berean, Anna Rene Hover, Michael R.J. (Anna) Moon, and Lisa (Cheryl) Moon. Her love extended to her grandchildren: Candace Berean, Katherine (Ray) Garrison, Malcolm (Mary) Berean, Jason (Shelly) Tucker, Matthew (Tonya) Hill, Jeremy (Hillary) Moon, Erin Hill, Denise (Eric) Seliga, and Ricky (Julie) Tucker, who will continue to cherish her memory. Blessed with many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, Anna's legacy of love and care will live on through the generations. She is also survived by her sister, Beverly J. Graham, numerous nieces, nephews, and their families, who will miss her dearly.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents, Donald L. and Anna (Buchi) Root; her brother and sister-in-law: Donald S. (Gloria) Root; her sons, Andrew and Brad Moon; daughter and son-in-law: Vickie L. (Gary) Tucker; son-in-law James Hover; granddaughter, Samantha Stone; and brother-in-law, Douglas Graham. Each of them held a special place in her heart, and she in theirs.

Throughout her life, Anna balanced her role as a devoted homemaker with various professional endeavors. She worked at the Owego Bowling Alley, IBM, and HADCO, where she was recognized for her meticulous attention to quality control and her welcoming presence as a receptionist. After moving to Florida, she continued her career at Goodwill, where her work ethic and warmth were an inspiration to many.

Anna's heart always remained in Smithboro, the place she called home. In 1991, she moved to Englewood, Florida, but her affection for her hometown never wavered. She was a lifelong and devoted member of the Smithboro United Methodist Church, where her faith was nurtured and where she nurtured the faith of others.

Her interests were as varied as they were passionate. Anna found joy in quilting, a reflection of her love; needlepoint, sewing, reading, playing the piano, and crocheting. Each hobby was more than a pastime; it was an extension of her love for her family and an expression of her creativity.

Above all, Anna's family meant the world to her. She loved her family unconditionally, cherished her role as a grandmother, and took immense pride in being a great, great-grandmother. Anna's friends were her extended family, and she shared countless cherished memories over cups of coffee and heartfelt conversations at T.J.'s Market with her dear friends Joan Eiklor, Barb Fairlie, Jeanie Smith, and Marion "Nancy" Nickels.

Described as loving, thoughtful, and friendly, Anna moved through life with a grace that drew people to her. She was the embodiment of the well-known quote by Mother Teresa, "Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier." Anna indeed spread love everywhere she went, and her presence was a source of happiness for all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A memorial service and celebration of Anna’s life will be held in August and will be announced on the website. Anna will be laid to rest in the Smithboro Cemetery.

Memories may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com

Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Smithboro United Methodist Church, PO Box 37, Nichols, NY 13812.

As we bid farewell to Anna, we celebrate a life well-lived, a family well-loved, and a faith well-kept. Her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those she touched.