OBITUARY: Bower, Anne J. - Jul 4, 1930 - Aug 26, 2016 Anne J. Bower, 86, of Bradenton, FL went to our Lord on August 26, 2016. She died in her home, as she wanted to, surrounded by her family. She was the ultimate wife and mother and always put God and her family first. She is survived by devoted children: Linda (David), Gayle, Marshall, Leann (Mike), Glenn (Judy), and Janice (Robert) and her sister, Mimi Winter. Five adoring grandchildren also survive her: Kristy (Richard), Thomas, Jessica (Jeff), Glenn, and Grant; five great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Thomas and their infant son, Thomas, her parents, two brothers and a sister. Anne graduated from St. Francis School of Nursing in Pittsburgh, PA and spent her long and accomplished career in nursing caring for others. She moved with her husband and two young daughters to Sarasota FL in 1956. She has been a resident of the Sarasota/Bradenton area ever since. She held nursing leadership positions in many different settings including Manatee Memorial Hospital, Sarasota Memorial Hospital and All Children's Hospital. She was a mental health care advocate, especially for children. She loved music, live entertainment including concerts, theater and sporting events. She was a very social person with many friends. She will be remembered for her laughter, sense of humor and compassion for others. Anne was a devoted Catholic her entire life and attended St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bradenton, FL. A Funeral Mass will be held 10:00 AM, Saturday, September 3, 2016 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 3100 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements. - Published in Herald Tribune on Aug. 30, 2016