AUBURN — Anna May (James) Wilding, 84, of Auburn died at the Hospice House on Dec. 11.

She was born in Lewiston, Sept 25, 1926, the daughter of Perry and Helen (Berry) James. Educated in local schools, Anna graduated from Edward Little High School in 1945.

On Dec. 23, 1949, Anna married the apple of her eye, William R. Wilding. As newlyweds, they spent almost a year living in New York City enjoying the arts, music and culture of living in the big city.

She was employed as an executive secretary at Bates Manufacturing for more than 20 years.

Anna was an avid reader, enjoyed crossword puzzles, going for walks, X-C skiing, and dancing to the Big Band Era groups wearing her jazzy hats.

Anna is survived by her husband, Bill; her brother, Bob James of Wilton; sons, Tim of Wales and Dain and his wife, Venise, of Lewiston; daughters, Susie Wilding-Hartford of Litchfield and Wendy Chisholm of Oak Harbor, Wash.; grandchildren, Jason Wilding and wife, Karen, Kristen Wilding, Derek Wilding and wife, Shannon, Adam Wilding, Gina and Sadie Hartford, Lindy (Chisholm) Fogg and husband, Jason, and Nathan Chisholm; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her sister, Louise Charters; brothers, Howard, Harold, Ralph and Edward James; and her son-in-law, Bob Hartford.

Anna was a beautiful lady with a sweet gentle soul whose essence will always be remembered.

We give special thanks to CNA’s, Jannine and Tamra at Marshwood Nursing Home, the staff at Central Maine Medical Center, Dr. Austin and the exceptional staff at the Hospice House who filled her last days with comfort, dignity and respect.

You are invited to share your condolences with the Wilding family by visiting www.thefortingroupauburn.com.