Anne-Marie R. Latham

Anne-Marie R. (Ollivier) Latham, 95, of Nokomis, FL and Dennis, MA passed away peacefully with loved ones by her side on Sunday, November 6, 2022 following a long period of declining health. She was pre-deceased by her husband of 58 years, Col. George R. Latham, in 2003. She was born in Villeneuve-le-Roi, France to the late Rene Ollivier and Jeanne (Tanguay) Ollivier. She spent her childhood in the Paris area while frequently visiting with extended family in Brittany. Upon receiving her diploma from L'Ecole de Commerce with a concentration in Business, she worked at Mutuelle de Richelieu in Paris as a stenographer. 

Mrs. Latham met her beloved husband, "Bob", during World War II in Paris. He was a young, American G.I. who fell head over heels in love when he met her. They were married there following a most romantic courtship which unfolded as Paris was under Occupation. Despite food and supply shortages, Anne-Marie's family managed to celebrate the young couple with a lovely wedding in the French style. They were separated for many months as Bob resumed and completed his duties with the U.S. Army in Europe. Mrs. Latham arrived in the port of New York City in March of 1946 aboard the troop ship Vulcania, with many war brides from several countries in Europe. She quickly adjusted to life as part of her new family and culture, while finding support with other war brides who were experiencing the same adjustments. These were lifelong friends who always held onto their shared WW II histories. She and her family made their home in Worcester for many years until 1974 when they moved to Bolton, MA. She was a most dedicated wife and mother who prided herself in keeping a warm, perfectly managed home for her growing family.

Having brought up her children, Mrs. Latham went to work at the Hanover Insurance Company in Worcester during the 1970's. She enjoyed working outside the home and finding friends in the workplace. She also spent much time at the family home in Dennis, MA where she welcomed many friends and family over 50 years. Many memories and celebrations took place under her watch. After retirement she and her husband joined the "snowbird" crowd and escaped to Nokomis, Fl. They had several healthy and happy years with old and new friends during their winters in the sunshine state.

She loved being a part of any and all family and friends’ activities and social events. She was always ready for a party and dancing. Live theater, gardening, reading and days at the beach were special interests for her. She especially liked anything old time Hollywood and was an avid Turner Classic Movies fan. She was a member of the Senior Citizens Club of Bolton, the Fort Devens Officers Club, and the Women's Club of Venice, Florida. 

In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Latham was predeceased by her sister, Simone Giraud and her brother, Roger Ollivier. She.is survived by two Sons, Command Sgt. Major Gerald R. Latham and his wife, Heidimarie of Worcester, Colonel George A. Latham II and his, wife, Tina of Raeford, NC and one daughter, Christine (Molly) DiBenedetto and her husband, William of Shrewsbury, MA. She also leaves her beloved ten grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren and four great great grandchildren as well as nieces and nephews in the US and France. 

The family would like to thank the staff at Notre Dame du Lac and Notre Dame Healthcare for the competent, loving, and warm care they gave to Mrs. Latham during her long and difficult journey. They are most grateful she was treated kindly, with respect and dignity by caregivers committed to God's work.  

At Mrs. Latham's request there will be no calling hours. Services for the family will include a Mass at the Notre Dame du Lac Chapel at 10:30 am and burial to follow at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA on Tuesday, November 15^th.  MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Veterans Association of America, Inc., P.O. Box 309 Audubon Station, New York, NY. 10032-0309 or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Please reference In Memory of Mrs. Anne-Marie R. Latham. 

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