Annette Marie Colucci

Annette Marie Colucci, 67, passed away on November 11th. Born in Detroit, Michigan, she was the fourth of eleven children of Anthony and Betty Colucci. She is survived by her children, Danielle Marie-Desire and Sinasta Joseph-Ukiah, and her beloved grandchildren Terrence, Piper, and Quinn; siblings Mike, Loretta, Mara Grace (Michael), Greg, Chris (Pam), Sharon (Eric), Jerome, and Suzette; along with many nieces and nephews.  Annette was predeceased by her parents and by two of her brothers, Joseph A. and John A. Colucci.

Annette lived a life filled with curiosity, creativity, and laughter. A true prankster with a bright spirit, she loved to have fun and brought joy wherever she went. Her lifelong passion for art guided much of her journey. She studied pottery and the arts at Grand Valley State University, later continuing her education at Wayne State University and Shasta College.

During her early adult years, Annette shared a deep companionship with Daniel Gorno, with whom she traveled widely. They lived in Ireland and France, bonding over their large Italian families and the joy of exploring the world together.

Annette eventually followed one of her brothers to Redding, California, where she raised her two children as a single mother. She spent most of her career as a devoted teacher at Secret Garden Preschool, where she poured her heart into helping young children learn, grow, and understand the world around them. She was a passionate advocate for early childhood education and believed deeply that all children deserved access to nurturing and supportive learning environments.

A memorial service will be held in Michigan in the summer of 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Huntington’s Disease Association, a cause meaningful to Annette and her loved ones.

Annette will be remembered for her creativity, her adventurous spirit, and the warmth she shared freely with family, friends, and the many children whose lives she touched.