Ann Jean Stuart

With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Ann Jean Stuart, affectionately known to many as “Cookie,” who passed away peacefully on May 17th, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born on November 29th, 1940, in Derby Connecticut, Cookie lived a life rooted in family, kindness, generosity, and quiet joy. She was the happiest when surrounded by the people she loved most and making sure no one ever left hungry. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, laughter, homemade meals, sweet treats, and unconditional love. Her servant’s heart was evident in the countless ways she gave of herself so freely — caring for grandchildren and great-grandchildren, offering help before it was asked for, and making everyone feel welcomed and cherished.

Her nickname, “Cookie,” stayed with her from childhood, a loving reflection of her lifelong sweet tooth and delight in cookies and desserts. It suited her perfectly, as she herself brought sweetness into the lives of so many.

One of her greatest passions was travel, especially to her beloved Ireland. In 1979, she made a meaningful journey there that became part of her lasting legacy. Through her determination to connect with family roots, she reunited generations with Irish relatives, creating bonds of love and friendship that continue to this day. What began as a trip became a lifelong connection between families across the ocean, something she treasured deeply and spoke of often. Her final trip was in January 2025.

More than anything, Cookie loved her Catholic faith. She was a member of Saint Philip the Apostle Catholic Church in Millersville. She was a faithful and devoted Catholic who found strength, comfort, and peace in prayer and the traditions of the Church. Her faith sustained her throughout her life and remained a source of hope and grace to the very end.

Cookie is survived by her three children: Ronald Ferry, husband of Karen, Elice Darrenkamp, wife of Albert, and David Ferry, husband of Pascha; nine grandchildren: Laura Graver, wife of Andrew, Stephen Darrenkamp, husband of Mary Ann, Nicholas Ferry, husband of Rebecca, Anja Ferry, Tiarnan Ferry, Liam Ferry, Emma Ferry, Mairead Ferry and Lila Ferry; eight great-grandchildren: Elizabeth, Catherine, Mary-Margaret, Adelyn, Teddy, Luciana, Ava, and John; a sister: Sarah Freeman, wife of Murray; and a brother-in-law: Ken Knieser.

Cookie is preceded in death by a son, James Ferry, husband of Lisa Ferry; and siblings: Anthony Stuart and Mary Lee Knieser.

Friends will be received from 6-8 PM on Friday, May 22, 2026, at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 441 N. George St, Millersville, PA 17551. Friends will be received again on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 10-11 AM with A Mass of Christian Burial to begin at 11 AM at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 558 W. Walnut St, Lancaster, PA 17603. Cookie will be laid to rest at St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery.