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A life of gratitude: Anne’s story

Anne’s early memories are shaped by childhood in wartime England. 

She grew up in a country area near the Grand Union Canal, where family outings often meant picnics by the water and watching barges being pulled along by horses. Despite the challenges of the war years, Anne remembers those days fondly. “We were happy there,” she recalls. “We didn’t have much, but it was enough.” 

Back home in Salford, the war was still ongoing, though as children Anne and her siblings were largely sheltered from the reality of what was happening around them. Her father, Charles Hugh Jones, served in the 8th Army as one of the “Desert Rats,” while the women at home kept families and communities going. 

Anne and her siblings in Salford, England

Life during those years required resilience. Many everyday items were rationed, and Anne remembers each person receiving a ration book. Small treats were rare. “My little treat was always a Mars bar,” she says. 

Anne’s mother made most of the family’s clothes, while produce often came from an allotment carefully tended by her mother and aunt. Nothing was wasted, it was a time of making do and mending. 

Despite the hardships, there were joyful moments. On Saturday nights, neighbours would bring their pianos out onto the street and everyone would gather for singalongs. “They were happy times,” Anne remembers.  

Anne and her son, Dean

One of the greatest milestones in Anne’s life was the birth of her son, Dean. “The highlight of my life was the birth of my son,” she says. 

Annes wedding with husband Peter

During a Mediterranean cruise with a friend, Anne met Peter, the man who would become her husband. Their connection grew, and when Peter returned to Australia, they kept in touch. In 1974, another major chapter began when Anne made the decision to move to Australia with Dean to build a life with Peter. “It was a big decision for Dean and I,” she recalls. “We were leaving family and friends, but it worked. Peter and I have now been happily married for over 50 years.” 

Family has remained at the heart of Anne’s life. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren continue to bring her joy, visiting often and sharing in the many memories she has created over the years. 

Anne at home at Regis Drysdale with her knitting projects

Today Anne enjoys the quieter pleasures of life, spending time knitting, reading, and reflecting on the many chapters that have shaped her journey at Regis Drysdale. 

Looking back, she says she remains grateful for the life she has lived, one built on resilience, family, and the simple happiness of appreciating what you have.