Ann L. "Boots" Gerard

Ann Lois Leeson "Boots" Gerard February 24, 2025 – DeLand, FL

Ann Lois Leeson "Boots" Gerard, age 100, of DeLand, FL, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025. Ann lived a full and rich life, dedicated to her family, faith, and community. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose warmth and generosity touched all who knew her.

Ann cherished the simple joys of life, especially her early mornings spent with a cup of coffee in hand, rocking in her favorite chair, and watching for her beloved cardinals. Summers at her Indiana cottage brought her much joy, but her favorite pastime was cruising around Webster Lake on her pontoon, making memories with her loved ones.

A woman of faith, Ann was a member of Stetson Baptist Church, she was active in BSF Bible study fellowship and took part in church programs throughout the years. Her passion for learning was evident, as she enrolled in various courses, some of which she completed multiple times. Ann also belonged to a close-knit group of friends known as "The Wild Women" and was a member of the "Twelve Damsels."

Ann was most widely known for her 30 years of dedicated service as a bookkeeper at DeLand Middle School. Ann was a retired educator treasure. She was also a valued member of the DeLand Museum of Art Guild, serving as President from 1998-1999, and member of Business Professional Women's where her leadership made a lasting impact.

She leaves behind a loving family that will forever treasure her memory. Ann is survived by her sister, Mary Leeson Cole of Indianapolis, IN; her daughter, JoAnn Gerard of DeLand, FL; her sons, QM2 Jeff (Judy) Gerard of DeLand, FL, Susan (Sgt. SF Charles) McGill, Capt. Greg (Mitzi) Gerard of DeLand, FL, Mark (Margie) Gerard of DeLand, FL, and Bret (Hope) Gerard of DeLand, FL; her granddaughters, Shawna( Michael) Gerard of Pittsburgh, PA, Sierra (Daniel) Neuwirth of Gainesville, FL, Christine (Nick) Davies of Waxhaw, NC, Erin (Chris) McGill Hartel, Lutz, FL and Nikki of Daytona Beach, FL; her grandsons, Joseph (Heidi) Gerard of DeLand, FL, Jeffrey of DeLand, FL; and great-grandchildren, Jonas, Ashton, Waverly, Willow, Caroline, and Jeffrey.

A celebration of Ann's life will be held at Lankford Funeral Home on Saturday, March 8, 2025. The viewing will begin at 10:00 AM with services starting at 11:00 AM, followed by interment at Oakdale Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. Jude in her memory.

Ann's legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to her family and faith will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten.