Compassionate Giving

Ingrid "Anne" Sherman Owens is a "Cradle Episcopalian". She grew up with loving grandparents, parents, and a brother and sister in Winnetka, Illinois. Anne warmly credits both sides of her family for providing an unshakeable foundation for her life and faith journey.

Sadly, when Anne was 11 years old, her father succumbed in an iron lung from Polio that he and she had contracted. Anne had two damaged muscles and was affected inwardly, and a sense of survivorship began that she did not understand at the time, but does now.

Anne went on to marry her high school sweetheart, Clyde "Punky" Owens, and they had three amazing sons. Escaping the harsh winters in the Mid West, they moved to Key Biscayne, Florida, and later bought the island's community newspaper and served their beloved area in local fundraising efforts. She credits Clyde as having had a "strong vein" of giving to others. Anne's mother moved to Covenant Living of Northbrook and later died in the Brandel Care Center in Illinois, introducing Anne to the promise and compassion of Covenant Living Communities and Services.

Clyde passed from cancer at the young age of 53, leaving Anne Owens a widow. Even while experiencing another immense loss, she did not lose hope in God's promises. She knows the Lord is with her, and loves her, especially when there is silence, meditating on Isaiah 41:10, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous hand."

During her first visit to Covenant Living of Florida, Anne felt drawn to the community. It wasn't long before she moved in, embraced the mission and work of the Women's Ministries and joined the Legacy Circle by including Florida's Benevolent Care Fund in her trust.

Quoting Anne, "I learned about the importance of the fund that gifted residents, who had used their funds, so they are able to stay here, in these surroundings. It's so important and comforting." Anne is a compassionate widow, who believes she is quite possibly blessing other widows, maybe even friends. She hopes her testimonial will inspire others to embrace the ideals of the Fund.

The Benevolent Care Fund creates joy and peace of mind for residents and family members. If you would like to learn more about making a gift from your will, trust, or IRA to support the future mission of your Covenant Living community, please call Julie Arfanis at (954) 916-6465 or e-mail [email protected]