Wanema “Ann” Eppley
Wanema Ann Eppley, 83, better known as Ann, of Blacklick, formerly of Zanesville, died 10:33 AM, Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Riverside Methodist Hospital. She was born Friday, September 4, 1942, in Norwich, the daughter of George Henry Ross and Juanita Rosamond (Butler) Ross. She married Marvin Lee Eppley on Saturday, August 15, 1964, and was Methodist by Faith.
Ann never wanted to be anything but a nurse. In 1960, she entered nurses training at the Bethesda Hospital School of Nursing. She embarked on a career that she loved and would forever impact how she approached life. She worked her sole career at Bethesda Hospital and then Genesis Hospital until her retirement in 2007, following 44 years of dedicated service.
Ann was a nurse 24/7 forever ministering to her family, friends, neighbors and anyone who asked for her advice or assistance. She was a member of Zanesville Daybreak Rotary, Gus Macker Steering Committee, where she was Chair for the Gus Macker Medical Tent. Ann was Co-Chair for the Muskingum County Fair Medical Coverage, and served on the Muskingum Board of Health. She was recipient of the Women of Achievement Award.
Ann is survived by one son, Marvin Lee Eppley, II; her daughter, Michonne Lynnette Eppley; one brother, George Vinton Ross and his wife, Victoria Irene Lancaster Ross; her loving nieces and nephews and other relatives; including special friends, Don & Karen Green (Traveling Buddies) and Tedd Murphy; her feline friends, Colby and Copper.
In addition to her parents, Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Lee Eppley; one sister, Gusta Lake Prouty; several brothers-in-law and nieces, Colleen Snyder, Sara Smith, and Christine Maxwell.
Friends may call from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home 935 Forest Avenue Zanesville, where services will follow at 1:00 PM, with Rev. Keith Taylor officiating. Burial will conclude in the Zanesville Memorial Park Zanesville. To sign the online register book or to send a personal condolence note please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com
