Ann "Annie" Deneen Grice, age 81, of Gassville, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 14, 2026, at the Hospice House in Mountain Home.

Born on May 16, 1945, in Harvard, Illinois, Annie was the daughter of the late Hugh and Geri Deneen. She lived a vibrant life defined by adventure, joy, and a beautiful sense of spontaneity. After graduating from college in Denver, Colorado, Annie and her sister Irene headed to Alaska on a whim to work as waitresses. It was in that small town that Annie's life changed forever when she met the love of her life, Neal, an FAA air traffic controller. The two were married and spent their lives trekking, hunting, fishing, and traveling across the United States on motorcycle trips. They also spent nearly a decade sailing the Caribbean, a chapter of her life that fueled countless stories she loved to share.

In 1995, Annie and Neal moved to Mountain Home, Arkansas, where Annie threw herself into the community. She had an unquenchable thirst for life, famously taking up tennis at the tender age of 65 and making lifelong friends on the court. She also stayed active with Mahjong, yoga, boxing, and walking, bringing her signature warmth and making new friends in every single activity she touched.

Annie was a dedicated and passionate sports fan, fiercely loyal to the St. Louis Cardinals. She and her dear friend Donna made monthly trips to catch weekend series, celebrating many birthdays at Busch Stadium, the Fox Theatre, the Botanical Gardens, and local museums.

Her heart for service was unmatched. Annie began volunteering at the Hospice of the Ozarks in 2000, bringing light, humor, and philanthropy to the organization for over a quarter of a century. In a beautiful and poetic closing of her life's circle, she passed away at the Hospice House in the very same room where her beloved Neal passed away in 2007.

Annie is survived by her brother, Dan Deneen of Rohnert Park, California; her brother-in-law, Ken Kickbush of Lodi, Wisconsin; her chosen son, Steve Gadberry, and his wife, Ginny; her dear friend, Donna Williamson; and a vast network of people worldwide who shared in her joy of living. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Neal; her parents, Hugh and Geri Deneen; and her sister, Irene Kickbush.

Per Annie's wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ann’s memory may be sent to Hospice of the Ozarks or Serenity House, Mountain Home, AR 72653. Arrangements are being handled by Kirby & Family Funeral and Cremation Services-Mountain Home, 600 Hospital Drive Mountain Home, AR 72653. Visit the online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.