Anne Cottam, 81, of Malden, MA, passed away on March 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Anne was born in Skelmersdale, England, and made the brave journey to America on January 13, 1966, to pursue her nursing career.
Her career in the U.S. began at Jewish Memorial Hospital in Roxbury, MA. She later worked for many years at Grover Manor Hospital in Revere and concluded her nursing career at Malden Hospital, where she touched countless lives with her compassion and dedication.
For many summers, Anne and her children returned home to Skelmersdale to visit with family.
Anne was predeceased by her loving parents, Kate and William Dewson.
Anne is survived by her loving husband, with whom she shared 56 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they enjoyed many vacations to Marco Island and Naples Florida. Countless day trips that created a lifetime of cherished memories.
She was the devoted mother of Victoria Morley of Saugus, Michelle McGonigal of Groveland, and Nicole Cottam of Framingham. She is also survived by her brother, Richard Dewson, and his wife Marion of Skelmersdale, England.
Anne was a proud and loving grandmother to Riley James Morley, Katie Ann Morley, and Victoria Cottam Rankin, all of whom brought her immense joy.
Anne was known for her warm heart and deep compassion for causes she believed in. She actively collected signatures for petitions to end greyhound racing in Massachusetts and to prevent a nearby quarry from being used as a landfill site for sludge near her home.
She never missed a special occasion, always expressing her love through carefully written, heartfelt cards that made her family feel truly cherished.
Anne loved her home and took great pride in making it beautiful. Each spring, she planted fresh flowers and hung pots of geraniums and peonies throughout her garden. Summers were spent enjoying her backyard pool with family, and each winter, she brought the magic of Christmas to life with her decorations and generous gifts.
Anne was social and enjoyed weekend trips throughout New England with her nursing friends, creating lifelong memories and stories that she loved to share with her family. During her children’s school years, she never missed her weekly breakfast gatherings with a close-knit group of friends at the Barn Deli.
Above all, Anne adored her grandchildren. She would do anything for them, and they always looked forward to their overnights at Nana’s house—where, as she lovingly said, “anything goes at Grandma’s house.”
Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours at the Breslin Funeral Home, 610 Pleasant Street, Malden on Thursday April 9th from 4-7 PM.