Anne Darby Beach, known lovingly to family and friends as Anne, was born on September 28, 1932, in Maryland and passed away on August 11, 2026, in Salisbury, Maryland.
Anne lived a long and meaningful life marked by faith, devotion, and deep love for her family and church. She was the daughter of the late William Darby and the late Alice Darby, and she carried the values of hard work, kindness, and perseverance throughout her life. Those who knew Anne will remember her as a faith-filled, generous, and loving woman whose presence brought warmth and comfort to those around her.
She graduated from Hebron High School, Class of 1950, where she played on the volleyball, basketball and softball teams.
Anne was the beloved wife of the late Bobby O. Beach for over 57 years. Together, they shared a life built on love, commitment, and family. Their marriage was a source of strength and joy, and Anne treasured the memories they created together over the years. She was a devoted mother to her son, Scott Beach and his wife Vicki, her daughter Beth Gerleve and her husband Jim, and her daughter Barbi Callahan and her husband Bunky. Anne found great happiness in her role as a mother, and her love for her children was constant and unwavering.
Family was at the center of Anne's life, and she took great pride in each generation that followed. She was a cherished grandmother to Jami (Nate), Megan (Turt), Darbi (Megan), Scott (Tammi), Bradley (D), and Gavin. She was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild on the way, each of whom brought her joy and pride. She is also survived by her brother HC Darby and many nieces and nephews. Anne delighted in the growing family around her and treasured the time spent with those she loved. Her legacy will continue through the generations who were fortunate to know her love, guidance, and example. She attended every sporting event of her grandchildren as their biggest fan, never missing a game.
Anne was also deeply devoted to Bethesda United Methodist Church, where she was an active member in all aspects of church life for more than 70 years. Her faith was not simply a part of her life, but the foundation of it. She gave her time, energy, and heart to her church community, serving faithfully and participating wholeheartedly in the fellowship and ministry of Bethesda United Methodist Church. Her long years of service reflected her steadfast commitment to God and to the people around her. She was a familiar and beloved presence, and her influence will be remembered with gratitude by all who worshiped and served alongside her.
In addition to her devotion to family and faith, Anne enjoyed playing sports, especially bowling and golf. When it came to golf, she accomplished something that many have not by making a hole in one at Green Hill Country Club. These are the activities that brought her enjoyment and companionship over the years. She was also a devoted Baltimore Orioles, Ravens, Washington Wizards, Mystics and Maryland Women's Basketball fan. There was always a sporting event on her television!
She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild on the way, all of whom will carry forward the love and values she so faithfully shared. In addition to her parents and husband, Anne was preceded in death by her brothers, Frank, Charles, Cooper and Joe Darby. And her sisters, Eileen White, Elizabeth Bradford, and Middy Payne. Those members who went before her now welcome her home. Her life was rich with meaning, and she leaves behind a family bound together by the strength of her example and the depth of her love.
Anne Darby Beach will be remembered with great affection and respect. Her life was one of quiet strength, enduring faith, and generous love. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.
A funeral service to honor the legacy of Anne will be held Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Bethesda United Methodist Church, 406 N Division St, Salisbury, MD 21801. A public visitation will begin at 10:00 AM followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow the service at Hebron Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Anne's memory to Bethesda United Methodist Church, Endowment and Trust.
