Ann F. Lowe, 83, of Holyoke, passed away peacefully after a long illness, on September 8, 2025 at her home, surrounded by family. Ann was born in Belmullett, Co. Mayo, Ireland, to John and Nora (Lavelle) Burke on February 7,1942. The oldest of four children, Ann emigrated with her family in 1950 after an ocean voyage aboard the SS America. They were immediately welcomed home to Holyoke by family that had come before them. Ann attended Holyoke elementary schools and graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1960. She then attended Holyoke Business School and worked for several local businesses as an administrative assistant. She retired in 2006 from Bacon/Wilson, P.C. A great source of pride for Ann was leading the 1959 Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade as Grand Colleen. This experience led her to years of service with the Parade Committee especially supporting the events and activities around the Colleen Pageant and the Coronation Ball. Ann was also a member of the Irish Cultural Center of Western Mass, having served as secretary and a member of the Board of Directors. While working at the Holyoke’s Strand Theater, Ann met her future husband, Richard F. Lowe. They were married at Holy Cross Church on April 4, 1964. After Richard completed service in the Army, the couple settled in Holyoke and raised their two daughters. Ann had been a communicant of Blessed Sacrament Church for over 50 years. Ann was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. She was known for her love of family, Holyoke, and all things Irish, especially Irish music performed by her brothers. Ann also loved to host her family and friends to celebrate holidays and special occasions. She loved to knit, and was a fan of mystery novels. Most of all, Ann loved being “Nannie” to her grandchildren, taking them on frequent walks around the mall and lunch at McDonald’s, and never missing their games, concerts, and other activities.

Ann is survived by her daughters Kelly O’Sullivan (James), and Heather Lowe; her sister Mary Hallahan (Philip); brothers Sean Burke (Rita) and Desmond Burke (Annmary). She will be greatly missed by her grandchildren Andrew, Catherine, and Madison. Ann was predeceased by her parents, her husband Richard, and sister-in-law Shirley Burke. Ann’s family is grateful for the compassionate care given by the caregivers from Associated Home Care and Baystate Health Hospice.

The funeral will be held on Friday, September 12, at 9 a.m.from the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, located at 2049 Northampton Street, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 1945 Northampton Street, both in Holyoke. Burial will take place at St. Jerome’s Cemetery, Holyoke. Calling hours will be on Friday, September 12, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Ann’s memory to Baystate Health Foundation,30 Capital Drive, West Springfield, MA 01089, specifically naming Baystate Health Hospice to direct your donation.