Ida Marie Anderson

Ida M. (Johnson) Anderson, a woman whose life was defined by love, compassion, and a tireless devotion to others, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2025, at 88 years of age. She was the beloved and dedicated wife of the late Wayne A. Anderson. Born in Manchester, Connecticut, on September 2, 1937, Ida was a cherished daughter of the late Herman and Mildred (Berggren) Johnson. A proud lifelong resident of Connecticut, she graduated from Manchester High School in 1955 before earning her degree from the Hartford Hospital School of Nursing in 1958. Ida built a beautiful and impactful nursing career at Manchester Memorial Hospital in Labor and Delivery. Known for her caring spirit, she was not only a dedicated nurse but was also one of the hospital's first Lamaze coaches, guiding countless new families. Her faith was a constant source of strength, and she was an active, lifelong member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Manchester, CT. In retirement, Ida and Wayne shared wonderful memories traveling together, particularly enjoying the sunny shores of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the beauty of the Maine coastline, and trips to Branson, Missouri, Las Vegas, Nevada and Nashville, Tennessee. Her greatest joy was helping care for her beloved grandchildren, and she continued her service to the community by volunteering her time at Manchester Hospital. Ida's legacy of love is carried on by her three devoted children: Christine Anderson and her partner Doreen Dower of Framingham, Massachusetts; Jeffrey Anderson of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and Deborah Gogan and her husband Shawn of Hudson, Massachusetts. She was the loving "Meena" to four adored grandchildren: Meghan, Samantha, Zachary, and Caitlyn. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Barbara Prentice of Eugene, Oregon, and her sister-in-law, Janet Acker of Statesville, NC, along with numerous extended family members, cousins, nieces, and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her sister, the Reverend Ruth M. Johnson and her brother-in-law Ron Prentice. The family extends heartfelt thanks to her Nieces and Nephews, Sara and Eryn Manela, Wendy and Rob Hand and Paul (Cheri) Acker for the profound kindness and unwavering support they showed Ida.

Calling hours will be Friday, October 24, 2025, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at Holmes-Watkins Funeral home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, CT. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00am on Saturday October 25, 2025, at the Emanuel Lutheran Church, 60 Church Street, Manchester.

In honor of Ida’s memory, the family suggests donations be made to Emanuel Lutheran Church, Manchester CT and the Visiting Nurse and Health Services of CT, 8 Keynote Dr. Vernon, CT, both causes close to her heart. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com