Ann L. Hess

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ann L. Hess, who departed this life on August 7, 2025. She was born on December 31, 1937, in Hyde Park, Vermont, to the late Herbert W. and Isabelle M. (Boylan) Lanpher. 

  

Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James G. Hess, and their daughter, Donna J. Lachance and grandson, James D. Hess. She is survived by her children, Darwin Hess and his wife Marla, Debbie Hess-Holbrook and her husband Larry Holbrook, Donald Hess and his wife Bette, Diana Lizak and her husband Clayton, and son-in-law Robert Lachance. Ann also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. 

  

Ann dedicated many years of her life to serving the community, working as a cafeteria worker for the Belchertown School System before transferring to UMass Amherst, where she retired after many years as the supervisor of the dining commons. In her retirement, Ann actively contributed to the Belchertown Senior Center. She also organized Bingo nights for Pine Valley Plantation, embodying her spirit of community and service. Ann had a passion for playing cards with her family and friends and loved watching the Boston Red Sox. 

  

A visitation will be held in her honor on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a celebration of Ann's life at 11:00 AM at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. Burial will take place immediately afterward in Mt. Hope Cemetery. 

  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Belchertown Senior Center in Ann's memory. Her kindness and dedication to her community will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Ann L. Hess will be dearly missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.