Anne L. Ireland, 88, of Lexington passed peacefully into eternity with God on October 8th. During her last months on earth she was surrounded by family who she reminded daily, if not hourly, of her love for them. She is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years R. Blake Ireland Jr., and daughters Leigh-Anne Ireland Walker (Jim) and S. Leslie Ireland (George M. Smith). Her son R. Blake "Chip" Ireland III entered eternity before her, where they will be reunited.

Anne and Blake shared a love for travel and photography. In their later years they favored photo safaris in Africa and returned with countless stories and an even greater number of photographs. Anne was a true and gifted artist. This was reflected in the remarkable photos she took of elephants of all sizes, long-legged giraffes, and rambunctious lion cubs. She received her Bachelors of Science from Moore College of Art in Philadelphia. The original modern woman, Anne moved to New York City after graduation to begin a career in textile design. Art was woven throughout her life. She made a beautiful home for her family, was curator of the Lexington Historical Society, was an active member of Lexington Arts and Crafts Society and the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, and served as a docent at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Anne had a remarkable sense of style, which she bestowed upon her daughters. Even in the final days of her life she didn't feel quite complete without her scarf, earrings and lipstick. To the end, she was "hot stuff."

Anne also loved her "critters". She enjoyed watching the various birds at the feeder and the chipmunks below. She welcomed all comers, including the occasional New Hampshire bear in search of thistle seed, and chided the squirrels if they seemed to be eating more than their fair share. Anne had many four-legged friends and greeted them readily during her daily walks through the neighborhood. She enjoyed  being outdoors amidst the trees and flowers. Much of her artwork reflected how much she appreciated God's creation.

In addition to the enduring love of her family, Anne will be remembered fondly by friends at Hancock United Church of Christ, Congregational in Lexington and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.

The family is deeply thankful to the nurses and volunteers at the Miriam Boyd Parlin House hospice in Wayland, MA. They provided tender care during Anne's last weeks and gave the family peace of mind that she was comfortable. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages a donation to the Salvation Army.