Christine R. Ansley

Christine Ruth Ansley, a beloved wife and devoted mother, passed away on May 25, 2023, in Vallejo Kaiser at the age of 76, after a fifteen-year courageous battle with cancer. She was born on January 14, 1947, in San Luis Obispo to Mildred Dorris and Gaylord Shekell.

Christine's journey in life was marked by many achievements and unwavering dedication. She graduated as the Valedictorian of Analy High School in 1964 in Sebastopol, CA, and continued her pursuit of knowledge earning her teaching credentials and Bachelor of Arts degree from Sonoma State in 1969.

That same year, Christine married the love of her life, William Ansley. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Over the years, they welcomed the blessings of two children, Brian and Jeffrey, who brought immeasurable joy to their home.

Christine's passion for education led her to a fulfilling teaching career which began in Concord, CA, where she shared her love of History and Math. Christine took a break from teaching in 1972, and became a stay-at-home mother to raise and guide her two sons. She returned to teaching for the next eighteen years in the Napa community at Vintage, Napa HS, and River School where she inspired countless students most notably in mathematics.

Christine is survived by her husband, William Ansley of Napa; her sons: Brian (Wendy) Ansley of Palm Desert and Jeffrey Ansley of Napa; and her grandchildren: Francine, Georgina, Tommy, Roman, and Paulina. She is preceded in death by her parents, Mildred Dorris and Gaylord Shekell.

Christine's infectious smile, gentle demeanor, and compassionate nature touched the lives of all who knew her. She had a unique ability to make others feel valued and loved, effortlessly lighting up any room she entered. Her genuine care for others and her warm heart will be deeply missed.

Beyond her roles as a wife and mother, Christine was a remarkable woman of diverse talents and passions. She had a profound love for the French language, exemplified by her membership in Alliance Française NV. Christine's competitive spirit shone through in her fervor for sports, particularly golf, tennis, and swimming. Her passion for golf began during her childhood as she played alongside her parents, and she and her husband William continued to cultivate their shared love for the sport throughout their lives. As active members of the NVCC for forty-five years, they forged memories on the green with their two children. Christine's sharp memory, combined with her unending thirst for information, endowed her with an expansive wealth of knowledge spanning all subjects where she challenged herself every night watching Jeopardy before enjoying a Giants game.

As a wife, Christine shared an extraordinary bond with her husband, William. Their profound connection became the bedrock of their life together, filled with adventures and exploration. They journeyed across the globe, from the exotic landscapes of Antarctica to their favorite destination, New Zealand, collecting mementos and memories that littered their home and filled their hearts.

Christine will be dearly missed by her family and friends. At her request, no funeral service will be held. Christine's ashes will be interred at Pleasant Hills Memorial Park alongside her parents, in Sebastopol, CA.

As we bid farewell to Christine, let us reflect upon the lasting legacy of kindness and love that she leaves behind.

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