Ann Napp Rolison

RALEIGH – Ann Napp Rolison, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 5, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Ann was born on July 25, 1949, in Roscrea, Ireland, a town rich with history and tradition. She and her twin sister, Mary, shared an unbreakable bond that began at birth and carried them through life’s journey. They were lovingly adopted by Dr. Louis and Reba Napp and were raised in Long Island, New York, alongside their new sister, Vivian, in a home filled with love, support, and opportunity. Ann is survived by her twin sister, Mary Linden, and her sister, Vivian Weber.

For 55 wonderful years, Ann was married to the love of her life, Barry Rolison. Together, they built a family grounded in love and mutual respect. She is survived by her devoted husband, their three children, Tara Wahl (Ken), Shawn Rolison (Tonia), and Brian Steed (Bonnie), six grandchildren, Keira Wahl, Brayden Rolison, Ava Rolison, Nick Steed, Savannah Steed, Breanna Steed, and her great-grandchildren, Parker Steed and Lily Ann Steed, all of whom brought her endless joy. Ann’s legacy lives on in her family, whose lives she deeply touched with her warmth, wisdom, and boundless love.

Ann attended the Misericordia Hospital School of Nursing, where she earned her degree as a Registered Nurse. For 36 years, she devoted herself to a deeply rewarding career in nursing, specializing in psychiatry. Her compassionate spirit, empathetic nature, and remarkable ability to connect with others made her a source of hope and healing for both her patients and colleagues.

Even after retiring, Ann’s desire to make a difference in the lives of others never wavered. She pursued her passion for writing, becoming a published author later in life. Her heartfelt novel, inspired by her natural mother’s courageous journey from Ireland to the United States, captured the resilience, love, and fortitude that shaped her family’s story. Her book is a testament to Ann’s own character and her ability to honor her roots while forging an enduring legacy of her own.

A devout Catholic, Ann was actively involved in her church community, volunteering countless hours over the years. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring her dedication to helping others.

Ann’s deep connection to her Irish heritage was evident in everything she did. She carried the spirit of her homeland in her heart, sharing its traditions, values, and stories with everyone she met. Her life was a beautiful blend of love, faith, resilience, and inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Ann’s life was a testament to love, compassion, and the unyielding bonds of family. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit and the lessons she imparted will remain in the hearts of those she touched forever.

May God bless and keep her until we meet again and all our tears are washed away. To know her was to love her.

Her family invites all those who knew and loved Ann to join them in celebrating her life and honoring her memory. Visitation will take place on December 19 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Raleigh. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 20, at 2:00 PM at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral in Raleigh.

Funeral arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Raleigh. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com