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Anne Derasmo turned 100 years old on February 15, 2024. A member of Roanoke Island Baptist Church, this dynamite of a woman has made enough of an impact on her church community that they went ahead and held a big birthday celebration for her on February 17 at RIBC.

“She’s such a sweet lady,” RIBC Pastor Scott Baxley said of Derasmo. “Friendly, kind and a blessing. She’s always upbeat.”

Derasmo moved to Roanoke Island with her son and daughter-in-law, sole caregivers themselves, Dom and Linda. Upon arrival in 2017, they joined RIBC and have attended services just about every week. They’ve grown with their church community over the years and everyone was happy to join in the festivities to celebrate such a momentous occasion.

“I appreciate everyone being here on my birthday. God bless each and every one of you,” Ann said as guests gathered to eat.

Although Ann is dealing with dementia, she knows scripture by heart. Dom shared that his mother will sometimes finish verses that Pastor Baxley begins during service. “She is a good Christian woman, and still reads her bible every day,” Linda said.

Steve and Lanie Vohs spoke highly of Ann, noting that she has always had a “wonderful disposition.” Lanie shared, “We all love her to death, I mean how could you not?” The couple has been a part of RIBC for many years and were once the guests of honor at a 50^th anniversary celebration hosted by their church. “It’s such a caring community.”

Ann is best described by her son as “five hundred pounds of dynamite.” She was married to her spouse for 72 years and always made sure her family had home-cooked meals and clean clothes. She can most notably be found on Wednesdays and Sundays singing at RIBC with a big smile on her face.

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