Ann L. McNaughton

Ann L. McNaughton, 87, of Cape Cod, MA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on September 27, 2025.

Born on March 7, 1938, in New Bedford, MA, Ann married Ernest F. Brisson at age 18 in 1956. Though the marriage did not last, together they created a family that would remain her proudest legacy.

In later years, while working at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA), Ann fell in love with 'her Captain' and soulmate — Capt. Alan McNaughton of the US Navy and MMA. Married in 1993, together they shared more than three decades of love, partnership, and adventure—splitting their time as "snowbirds" between Sandwich, MA, and Sarasota, FL—until his passing in 2019 at 91 years old.

A woman of remarkable resilience and faith, Ann conquered cancer in 2022 and continued to live independently close to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ann lived with style, laughter, and spirit. She often recounted her fondest memory of once dancing with Vice President Hubert Humphrey, dressed in a stylish black fitted sheath—a moment where she felt like the most sophisticated, beautiful woman in the room. She continued to dress fashionably every day and was a devoted fan of Neil Diamond and Tom Jones, whose music brought her endless joy.

Above all, Ann treasured her family. She is survived by her four beloved children: Michael Brisson, Janet Brisson, Steven Brisson and his wife Laura, and Lisa Asquino; nine grandchildren—Jennifer, Megan, Shannon, Adam, Maggie, Katie, Brooke, Spencer, Camden; and four great-grandchildren—Jacob, Thomas, Brianna and Alaina—each of whom brought light and pride to her life.

Honoring her final wishes, Ann will be cremated and celebrated at her chosen resting place by the Nobska Lighthouse in Falmouth, a place dear to her heart where she often visited and delighted in the famed 7-mile race that began in 1973.

Ann's legacy is one of strength, perseverance, faith, and unconditional love—a life well lived and a family bound together by her grace.