Grace Winifred (Milan) Anderson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Winsie Anderson, who left this world on December 26, 2025, at the age of 99. Born near Poulsbo, Washington, on May 17, 1926, Winsie lived a remarkable life defined by her deep faith, unwavering love for her family, and a resilient spirit.

Winsie was the beloved daughter of Cary and Ruth. She was a bright light in the lives of all who knew her. Growing up in a family that valued education and service to others, Winsie graduated from Bothell High School in Bothell, Washington, in the spring of 1942 at just 15 years of age. With the world at war, she answered the call to serve her country by joining the workforce in the shipyards of Seattle. There, she was trained as an electrician and contributed to the war effort by creating wiring harnesses for Liberty ships.

In her personal life, Winsie was married to her life partner, Larry, in April of 1949. Their marriage spanned 51 years, filled with mutual love, support, and shared faith until Larry's passing. Together, they raised a beautiful family that included their children: Ruthy, Ken, Dan, Miriam, and John.

Winsie's journey was not without its struggles. In 1951, she was diagnosed with tuberculosis, a challenge that led her to spend 22 months in a TB sanitarium. Through sheer determination and faith, she overcame this illness, ultimately having 40% of her lung removed. This resilience defined her, and she emerged stronger, continuing to raise her five children with love and grace.

Winsie’s faith was evident not only in her personal beliefs but also in her active participation in church wherever they lived. Her involvement in those communities underscored her dedication to service and fellowship. In the early years of their marriage, Larry and Winsie were preparing to go as missionaries to Italy when that ended when Winsie contracted tuberculosis. Their interest in missions continued, and during the 1960’s while living outside of Washington DC and New York City, Larry and Winsie hosted many missionary families who were passing through to see the nation’s capital or to catch the steamship back overseas. Everywhere we lived, our home was open to neighbors, friends, and anyone in need. Several times growing up we had individuals living with us for months because our provision was equal to their need.

Her passion for women's Bible studies was a significant part of her life, as she dedicated herself to nurturing her faith and sharing it with others. Winsie was known for her kind heart and her unwavering commitment to loving God, her family, and her neighbors. One of her children asked her recently, “So Mom, what does it come down to? What is it all about?”

Mom sat quietly and then taking a breath she said, “Jesus loves me, and someday I’m going to live with him!” This beautiful affirmation of faith encapsulates her spirit and the legacy of love she leaves behind.

Winsie is survived by her children, her youngest sister, Millie, eight grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren.

A short graveside service followed by food and fellowship at a nearby home will take place on January 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Oak Grove Gardens cemetery in Durham, NC. A memorial service to celebrate Winsie’s extraordinary life will be held on January 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Pittsboro Christian Village in Pittsboro, NC.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests gifts to the Pittsboro Christian Village Benevolent Fund.

Winsie Anderson's life was a testament to love, resilience, and faith. She leaves behind a legacy in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her story will continue to inspire and remind us of the power of love and faith in our lives. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will live on in the stories and memories we cherish.

Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Anderson Family.