Anne Loretta McLean

ANNE MCLEAN

March 30, 1925 - March 5, 2024

Service to be held March 16th, 2024, at 10AM at St. Timothy's Catholic Church, 10425 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, 90064, with reception to follow at 3133 Reid Avenue, Culver City, 90232.

Anne McLean lived an astoundingly full life, as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and successful businesswoman. Born in Ballycastle, Co. Mayo, Ireland, as an early widow, she raised seven strong sons until they reached adulthood. She spent early years of her family life in Ireland and England before moving to Australia in 1970 with her sons. She always had a warm meal and an open seat at the table for anyone in need, be it friends or anyone needing a home away from home. A devoted mother, Anne and the family moved to California in 1980 to care for her son Martin who was seriously injured in a car accident. In 1984 she founded Project Headway, the first organization in California to provide specialized and subsidized care in a residential setting for young adults with brain injuries (she was featured in the LA Times, Monday March 6, 1995, under the heading, Local Heros).



Anne had incredible strength, resilience, sharp intelligence, and the tenacious ability to accomplish many things against overwhelming odds. Her life was dedicated to her family and she opened her home and her heart to a wide circle of family and friends wherever she lived. Her table was usually set for 20 or more and everyone was invited whether it was for her traditional Sunday dinners or a Christmas, Easter or Thanksgiving celebration. Anne was always ready to help someone in need and usually came with a pack of sons and friends to pitch in as well. Many of her friendships were with her throughout her life.



Anne was an accomplished businesswoman and made a success of every venture she established through her hard work, unfailing commitment, wit and a stubborn refusal to give up no matter what was thrown at her. She owned and ran two boarding houses in Bristol, England, then established four successful nursing homes in Australia before moving to Los Angeles to care for Martin. She won several awards for her role in founding and building Project Headway including the Richard Reardon Accomplishment award, Bill Clinton acknowledged her efforts and the JC Penny Golden rule award as well as numerous others.



Almost single-handedly, Anne raised seven sons and moved to 3 continents to keep them together and find greater opportunities for them all. She did everything in her power to provide the best life possible for her family and despite the many challenges she faced, gave them a life full of laughter, love, friendship, good times, music, and a helping hand when needed. Despite many hardships, she never failed to provide a home, a refuge when needed, a glass of wine or whiskey and a chat, and any support she could offer. She was a force to be reckoned with whatever endeavor she took on and inspired her family and the many friends around her with the same energy, strength and love. Our lives will never be the same without her.



May she rest in peace.