Ann Willigan Obituary
Ann C. Willigan, 94, died on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at her home in Norwalk, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Norwalk, the daughter of the late Eugene J. and Kathryn (Sculley) Chariott, she was predeceased by her husband, Herbert M. Willigan, in 1994.
Ann is survived by her children, Maureen Willigan and Thomas O'Brien of Wilton, Erin Willigan of Norwalk, and Herbert and Lisa Willigan of Westport; her grandchildren Michele and Jason Ruggiero of Monroe, Tristan Pennell of Norwalk, and Lauren, Brendan, and Colin Willigan of Westport; as well as her great-grandchildren Cole, Sloane, and Quinn Ruggiero of Monroe. Ann is also survived by her sisters, Alyse Chariott Benincaso and Judith Chariott DiMeglio, both of Norwalk.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Ann's guiding purpose was to give her family a strong and loving foundation. She lived with unwavering strength, good sense, and gratitude, always seeing the best in people and never giving up on anyone. She understood people and the world and chose to meet both with kindness. She often said she had a good life and truly meant it.
Her dedication to family shaped every part of her life, and she cherished the times when everyone was together. She was always there for her children and grandchildren and took great joy in being part of her great-grandchildren's lives, proud of their accomplishments and their character. She was the person everyone looked for—always ready with a smile, valuable advice, and unconditional support. Most of all, she gave her family a clear moral compass and the example of a life lived with kindness, humor, and integrity.
Ann's appreciation for life was reflected in her simple joys: watching the world go by from her front porch, walking her children to school, and spending summers camping with her family. She attended church faithfully each week, believing that giving one hour to God was never too much to ask. Ann was beautiful inside and out, her warmth and kindness matched by a lifelong love of fashion, epitomized by the iconic beige coat she treasured for decades.
All who knew Ann were truly blessed to have had her in their lives. She believed that true success was to be happy, rather than rich, and she lived that belief every day—with warmth, laughter, and love. She lived a good life and did it on her own terms.
Her family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 28, from 5–8 PM at the Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Avenue, Norwalk. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM on Wednesday, October 29, at St. Mary Church, 669 West Avenue, Norwalk, directly followed by a celebration of life.
