Ann Sophia VanSomeren

Ann VanSomeren, 93, of Penhook, Virginia passed away on Sunday, May 29, 2022. She was born on November 10, 1928, to the late Samuel and Jeani Robinson Kane. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Fred George VanSomeren.

Ann is survived by her children, Bonnie J. Overman of Penhook, VA, William S. VanSomeren and his wife Jeanie, of Atlanta, GA, and Barbara C. Bates and her husband, Bryan, of Chicago, IL; six grandchildren, Mike Shumake and his wife, Stacey, of Raleigh, NC, Chris Shumake and his wife, Katie, of Raleigh, NC, Boyd Overman and his wife, Amy, of Charlotte, NC, Jeremy Overman and his wife, Beth Ann, of Efland, NC, Bridget Ann Bates, of Chicago, IL, and Brendan Van Bates of Chicago, IL; great grandchildren, and numerous friends and loved ones.

Ann married her childhood sweetheart, Van.  As children, Van rode Ann on the handlebars of his bicycle. Ann was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was a happy lady who loved life.  Her glass was always half full.  She was member of the Penhook UMC where she sang in the choir.  A friend described Ann by saying, “She had the most beautiful spirit of anyone I know.  She lit up every room she was in and embraced everyone with unconditional love.”

In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association would be appreciated.

A memorial service and celebration of Ann’s life will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, at the Penhook United Methodist Church with Pastor B Sung officiating.  The family will receive friends following the service.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, SML, is assisting the family. To send online condolences please visit tharpfuneralhome.com.