Annamarie Wallace Obituary (1962 - 2024)

Annamarie Wallace, lovingly known as Nina and cherished as “Nona” by her family, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 13, 2024, at home surrounded by her children and mother. She was 62 years old. Born on May 29, 1962, she grew up in Lancaster, California, Nina was the daughter of James and Marie Blakely. She attended Paraclete High School, where she graduated in 1980. During her younger years, she excelled in running cross country and cheerleading, a reflection of her boundless energy and enthusiasm for life. In 1986, she married Bill Wallace, with whom she shared 19 years of marriage and raised two daughters, Lauren and Justine. In 2001, Nina moved with her family to Reno, Nevada, where she continued a life rooted in love, adventure, and faith. Nina and her two daughters shared an incredible bond, one filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support. Being their mother was her greatest joy and purpose, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She adored her role as “Nona,” pouring her love and energy into her grandchildren—Grayson, Madison, Jaxon, Noel, and Emmett—attending every milestone, celebration, and activity. Nina was a woman of many passions throughout her life. She loved dressing up, riding ATVs with her children, shooting shotguns, and cheering on her favorite NASCAR driver, “Jeffy” (Jeff Gordon). A devout Catholic, Nina found strength in her faith and passed it on to her family. Even as she battled multiple sclerosis, her determination to remain independent and involved with her loved ones never wavered. She faced every challenge with courage, grace, and an unwavering love for her family. Nina is survived by her daughters, Lauren Smith (Shain) and Justine Ross (Jim); her grandchildren, Grayson, Madison, Jaxon, Noel, and Emmett; her mother, Marie Blakely; her brothers, Jimmy and Bobby Blakely; and a host of extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, James Blakely. Her family kindly requests donations to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in lieu of flowers, in honor of Nina’s strength and resilience. A celebration of Nina’s life will be held in Reno, Nevada, on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at 1PM. Please see the RSVP link below with additional details. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to the family with any questions. Nina was deeply loved and will be cherished always. Her legacy of love, faith, and devotion will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her. https://celebrationoflifefornina.rsvpify.com