Anna Mary Herbst

Anna Mary Herbst, 90, loving care giver to parents and veterans, licensed hairdresser, active participant in St. Paul's Episcopal Church, enthusiastic baker, passed away in her sleep on July 20, 2018 at the Bridgeway Care and Rehabilitation Center in Hillsboro, New Jersey. Anna resided for almost 20 years at the Gill Sr. Citizens apartments in Cranford.

Anna Mary Herbst and her twin sister Teresa were born January 13, 1928 to Bertrum C. W. Herbst and Anne Sloane. Anna had two older brothers, William and Bert Jr., Teresa died at age 9 and was often remembered. Anna graduated from High School with training as a beautician and hairdresser. That training and employment was a significant factor in her careful presentation of herself wherever she went.

Her father Bert was in the US Marines for two enlistments in Port Au Prince, Haiti circa 1920. Following military service he became a letter carrier for 42 years. Anna's brothers both served in World War II. The entire family joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars with Anna and her mother participating in the Woman's Auxiliary of that organization and Anna became President. The family received recognition for their long association and participation in activities and parades.
No doubt that interest in veterans led Anna to a later career at the Veterans Administration Medical Center, East Orange, New Jersey where she was recognized as a dedicated and reliable worker.

"Upon Tuesday, the nineteenth Day of May, 1953" Anna was Confirmed by the Bishop of Newark at All Saints Chapel, Trinity Cathedral, Newark. Anna often commented on this event and framed the certificate documenting her membership in the Episcopal Church. From that day to her death her church was a major influence in her life. Anna baked thousands of cookies and no doubt hundreds of cakes for new members and any event or any occasion where food was served. Anna collected recipes and tested all sorts of variations of cakes. Her selection of ingredients was a passion, her inventory of cookware was extensive.

Anna's loving brother, William in Clark kept constant contact and included Anna in family dinners, celebrations and vacation trips. Anna spent many summer weeks at William's waterfront summer home on the New Jersey shore.
Anna's Memorial Service will begin at 11AM Saturday August 11, 2018 at St. Paul Episcopal Church, Westfield. Her interment will follow in the Garth of St. Paul's Church. Arrangements by Gray Funeral Home, Westfield. Please go to: www.grayfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences.

Memorial contributions may be made in Anna's memory to the Anna Herbst Memorial Fund, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Westfield.