Anna Marie Waller

Anna Marie Waller, age 60, of Gainesville, Georgia died on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at home surrounded by her husband and children.

She was born on October 31, 1959 in Bowling Green, Ohio to Nelson and Mary Lou Milligan. Most of her childhood was spent abroad, first living in Australia and then Brazil, before returning to the U.S. in high school. She attended Bowling Green State University, where she met John, her husband, and later in life, she earned her M.B.A. from Shorter University.

Anna had a dynamic career, which she occasionally put on hold to be at home with her children. In 2000, Anna and John launched their own business, iesoccer, which sold wholesale sports magnets. She managed this from their home for over a decade. Most recently, she served as the director of children’s ministry at Westminster Presbyterian Church, which brought her immense joy.

As an avid reader, Anna loved discussing the latest books, research and trends. She enjoyed the accessibility of art and culture, especially through travel, and above all else, she cherished her relationship with God. While she always enjoyed hearing the words of thought leaders, she built her life’s perspective upon the Word of God, relying on scripture to guide her steps and help her grow closer to Jesus.

In her final days, Anna relied upon these treasures of faith which she had stored in heaven—those of love and faith, kindness and patience. Anna was a woman devoted to her family and someone who treasured her friends. Even on her hardest days, her thoughts were often focused on others, praying for them by name.

Anna is survived by her husband of 37 years, John; her mother, Mary Lou Milligan; her children, Kyle, Liz, Todd and Sarah; her three grandchildren, Josiah, Kate Lily and Titus; and her siblings, Andy (Deyan) Milligan, Will (Sharon) Milligan and Kerry Milligan (Michael Green). She was preceded in death by her father, Nelson Milligan.

A graveside funeral service for immediate family will be held on Saturday morning at Hillside Memorial Gardens in Gainesville. In keeping with the recommended guidelines related to COVID-19, this will be a private service for the family.

In lieu of flowers, Anna expressed her wishes for donations to be made to two organizations in which she deeply treasured.

 VHL Alliance, 1208 VFM Parkway, Suite 303 Boston, MA 02132    Vhl.org/donate

 Halt Club, PO Box 2216 Gainesville, GA 30503

The family would love to hear from you to share memories and pictures. Online condolences can be made at hillsidechapelfuneralhome.com, or by contacting the family by phone or email.

Hillside Chapel Funeral Home & Cremation Services 1190 McEver Rd. Gainesville, GA is in charge of arrangements.