of Memphis, TN

August 19, 1956 - November 11, 2018

Ann Blackard Reichling, 62, of Memphis, TN, passed away in her home, surrounded by her loving family, on Sunday, November 11, 2018.

She was preceded in the death by her parents, Hugh and Doris Blackard. Ann was survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Steven Reichling; her 2 sisters, Christine Williams (Gary) and Karen Maestri (Ricky); her brother, Walter Blackard (Bobbie); her 5 nieces, Shannon Williams, Jennifer Holt (Jason), Samantha Schmerge (Scott), Stacey Ford, and Kay Culbreath (Christian); her nephew, Chad Blackard (Kristin); and great nieces and nephews Oliver, Cannon, Whitney, Weston, Evie, Mackenzie, Anderson, Shep, Witt, Katelyn, and Leigh. Ann is also survived by her loyal four-legged boys, Klaus and Earl.

A graduate of White Station High School, Ann went on to work as a Veterinary Technician. She then earned a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from the University of Memphis. Ann used her education to work as a fierce and caring advocate for women's reproductive rights. She returned to school and completed a second Bachelor's Degree in Nursing, again at the University of Memphis. Ann enjoyed her career as a Critical Care Nurse at the Regional Medical Center at Memphis, now Regional One Health. Her patients, families, and coworkers remembered her fiercely protective nature and the skilled care she provided.

Ann's greatest love was her family. She enjoyed a 40 year marriage full of love and laughter that she and Steve would both describe as ''perfect''. Together they enjoyed traveling and spending time with their families and beloved dogs. Ann was the third of four children but those who know her best would affectionately note that she often played the role of the oldest child. Ann's older sister and brother, Christine and Walter, love to tell of having to take turns showing her off to their friends when she was a baby. Her antics with all of her siblings have become legendary family stories that will remain forever in their hearts. Her close friends and family know that her beloved baby sister Karen was always a loving and willing co-conspirator at the center of most of those stories. Although they had no children, Ann and Steve fostered a close bond with the children and grandchildren of their siblings. They took every opportunity to spend time and develop this bond, loving them fiercely. This family ''village'', as she would describe it, was honored to be able to care for her in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Ann's random acts of kindness be carried forward. In the winter, Ann always kept warm hats and gloves in her car that she would give to the homeless or to anyone who appeared to be in need. In her honor they request that you reach out to someone in need, repair a relationship that has been estranged, or even buy someone's coffee or meal without their knowledge. The best way to honor Ann is to continue her kindness.

There will be a small private family service per Ann's request.

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