Anne Bush Ambrose

Anne Bush Ambrose: Grace Under Fire, Love Without Limits

Anne Bush Ambrose, a woman whose life was a shining testament to courage, compassion, and unshakable faith passed away on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, in Gainesville, Georgia after a lifetime filled with purpose and devoted service to others.

Born in 1944 in Vienna, Georgia, Anne was raised in a home rooted in faith, learning, and responsibility. Though Anne once resisted the structure of her upbringing, she came to deeply cherish the values passed down to her, especially her father’s enduring belief: “Anything you put your mind to, you can accomplish,” and “When much is given, much is expected.” These became the foundation of her life.

Anne pursued higher education at Wesleyan College, fulfilling her mother’s dream for her, and later earned a Master’s degree. She began her professional journey as a teacher in Newport News, Virginia, in 1969, planting the first seeds of what would become her lifelong mission of service.

From 1969 to 1989, in Gainesville, Georgia, Anne dedicated herself to her community. At First United Methodist Church, she taught Young Adult and School Classes with warmth and wisdom. She also launched a successful after-school program at Miller Park School, always striving to help children grow, in mind, spirit, and confidence.

But it was during a year in Peru, from 1974 to 1975, that Anne’s courage was tested in unimaginable ways. What began as a hopeful journey to adopt a child became a harrowing mission to protect vulnerable children from abuse. After uncovering horrific conditions at an orphanage, Anne and her husband, “Big Bob,” made the brave decision to intervene and relocate the children. In the violent confrontation that followed, both Anne and Big Bob were shot and severely injured. Anne lost the ability to walk that day, but never her strength, her will, or her purpose.

Her nine-month recovery at the Shepherd Spinal Center was grueling but transformative. Through pain and uncertainty, Anne’s spirit endured.

Anne emerged from that trial with even greater resolve. She returned to teaching, then went on to build a respected psychotherapy practice, offering counsel with a depth of understanding that only someone who had suffered could bring.

Her fierce commitment to justice earned her the Liberty Bell Award in 1985 for her work with the House Arrest Program. In every community she served, Anne became a beacon of strength and compassion. In 1989, she moved to Atlanta and spent the next two decades helping those struggling with addiction at Metropolitan Atlanta Serenity House (MASH) where she saved the lives and futures of countless boys and their families. Her impact was profound. She was named one of the most outstanding providers of mental health in 1996, and in 2006, received the Points of Light Award from President George H. W. Bush for her extraordinary service.

Her later years were filled with joy and companionship, including a loving relationship with Ken, with whom she shared a deep bond and happiness.

More meaningful to Anne than any recognition was the love she gave and received. She loved fiercely: her family, those in her care, and the faith that never left her side.

Anne’s life was far from ordinary; it was breathtaking. Not because of what she endured, but because of what she gave: hope, kindness, and strength. She could have turned inward. She could have asked, “Why me?” But instead, Anne asked, “Who needs me next?” That was her legacy, not just to survive, but to lift others as she rose.

Anne was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Avner E. Bush and Dorothy Franklin Bush. She is survived by her children—Bush, Ben, Bob, and Anna—her cherished grandchildren Austin, Natalia, Cooper, Carter, and Nara II, her great-grandchild Samson, and a loving extended family. She also leaves behind a wide circle of friends, clients, and former students, all of whom carry forward her legacy of faith, strength, and service.

Her family extends their deepest gratitude to the many people who have shared Anne’s journey through the years, offering love, care, and unwavering support.

Anne Ambrose’s passing is a profound loss to her family, her community, and to those whose lives she touched in countless ways. Her legacy is lasting. Her strength, her faith, and her steel will forever stand as a testimony to a life courageously and beautifully lived. Anne is no longer with us, but rest assured, she now walks with angels.

A service celebrating Anne’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Gainesville First United Methodist Church located at 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30506. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia or to the charity of your choice.

A burial service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Vienna City Cemetery, Woodward Street, Vienna, GA 31092.

Memorial Park Riverside Chapel, 989 Riverside Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-6200. For online condolences www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com