Ethel “Anne” Cooke Muse of Charlottesville, Virginia was called home to be with the Lord on January 29, 2024.

Born September 5, 1924, in Cumberland County, Virginia, Anne was the daughter of Arthur and Beulah Meador Cooke. She was predeceased by her husband, Frank Muse; her son, Charlie Muse; and her two sisters, Thelma Timberlake and Mabel Cluff.

On a trip with the 4-H All Stars, Anne met Frank Muse, who would become her husband of 58 years. She and Frank enjoyed square dancing with the Virginia Reelers (often featuring Anne’s home-crafted dresses), camping with family, and traveling across the United States and internationally with dear friends well into retirement.

Anne was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Charlottesville, leading the Cradle Roll ministry for children; teaching Sunday school; and serving as president of the Blanche White Mission Circle, which she participated in for over 70 years. Even after she could no longer regularly join the services at First Baptist, Anne faithfully attended Bible study, prayer meeting, and chapel services at Our Lady of Peace.

 

She worked as a secretary in Richmond and Charlottesville, but her most treasured roles were as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Anne was well-loved by all she met. She will be remembered for her quiet, kind presence and her sweet smile.

In her 99 years, Anne witnessed a world of change and wonder. From her roots on a rural farm with an outhouse and no running water to automobiles, telephones, electric stoves, airplanes, and more things we take for granted, Anne watched the world evolve before her eyes. Shortly before she passed, she listened on a cell phone to a recording of her daughter playing piano.

Anne is survived by daughter Janet Muse and her husband Robert Walters of Charlottesville; daughter-in-law Judith Simon Muse of Raleigh, North Carolina; grandchildren Sarah “Aya” Muse, Noah Muse, Dawn Hudgins, Kimberly Walters, and Kurt Walters; great-grandchildren Laura Hudgins, Elizabeth Hudgins, Regan Walters, and Dara Walters; and a loving extended family.

Her family would like to thank Anne’s caregivers at Our Lady of Peace and the friends she enjoyed spending time with there, especially Joe Giovanelli, whose steadfast friendship she valued greatly. Thanks also go to Heartland Hospice whose care and attention were important to all of us over the last year.

For more on services and to share your condolences, visit Hill and Wood Funeral Services.