A Dedication to Annie Ruth Statham

This website is a testament to the enduring legacy of Annie Ruth Statham, a woman whose life was a symphony of love, compassion, and unwavering faith. She was more than just a devoted wife and loving mother; she was a beacon of hope, a gifted gospel singer whose voice soared with the spirit of her convictions, and a woman who embodied the true meaning of selfless service. Annie's life was a gift to all who knew her, a shining example of the transformative power of love and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

From her earliest years, Annie possessed a radiant warmth and an innate musicality that captivated those around her. She had a remarkable ability to forge connections with people from all walks of life, offering a listening ear, a kind word, and a genuine empathy that transcended social barriers. Her singing was a conduit for her deep faith, her voice carrying the power to uplift spirits and stir souls.

Annie's musical journey was a tapestry woven with dedication and passion. She honed her craft under the tutelage of renowned figures like Maydell Cherry, whose mentorship nurtured her talent, and Arthur Newman, whose guidance shaped her artistry. She graced the stage alongside celebrated musicians such as Walter Odom, Verlaine Reese, and Jesse Dixon, their shared melodies creating harmonies that resonated with audiences. Annie's voice echoed through prestigious venues, from the home court of the San Antonio Spurs, where she delivered stirring renditions of the national anthem, to the sacred spaces graced by the Pope during his 1987 visit to San Antonio, where her rendition of "The Lord's Prayer" filled the air with reverence. Her artistic spirit found expression in the dramatic role of Madam Butterfly, a testament to her versatility, and in the recording of her own poignant interpretation of "Ave Maria," a timeless piece that showcased the depth of her musicality.

Beyond the spotlight and the accolades, Annie's true essence resided in her unwavering commitment to caring for others. She was a nurturer at heart, her home a haven where family and friends gathered to savor delicious, home-cooked meals, including her legendary brownies, baked with love and shared with an open heart. Annie's generosity extended far beyond her immediate circle, reaching out to embrace those in need. She was a tireless advocate for the vulnerable, offering sustenance and solace to the homeless, tending to the sick with compassion, and providing nourishment to the hungry. Her actions were a reflection of her deep faith, her kindness a testament to the belief that every individual deserves dignity and care.

Annie's passing on November 30th, 2018, at 5:49 am, at Carol Ann's Facility, marked a profound loss for her loved ones and the community she served. Though Alzheimer's disease cast a shadow over her final years, stealing precious memories, it could not diminish her inherent strength or her unwavering hope. Annie faced the challenges of her illness with remarkable courage and grace, her spirit an inspiration to all who witnessed her journey.

The I Care Memory Organization carries forward Annie's legacy of compassion and service. This website serves as a tribute to her life, a place where her memory can inspire others to embrace the values she held dear: love, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to caring for those in need. May Annie's story continue to resonate, encouraging us all to strive for a world where every individual is treated with dignity, respect, and love.

"To love, care for, and cherish the lives of our fellow men and women."

Alzheimer's Prayer

Dear Lord,

Please grant my visitors tolerance for my confusion, forgiveness for my irrationality, forgiveness for my irrationality, and the strength for my irrationality, and the strength to walk with me into the mist of memory my world has become.

Please take my hand and stay a while, even though I seem unaware of their presence.

Help them to know how their strength and loving care will drift slowly into the the days to come, just when I need it most.

Let them know that when I don't recognize them that I will... I will.

Keep their hearts free from sorrow for me, for my sorrow, when it comes, only the last moment. Then it's gone.

And finally, Lord, please let them know how much very much their visits mean; How even through this relentless misery, I can still feel their love.

Amen.

The Alzheimer's Prayer

Annie Ruth Statham's Journey

Even as Alzheimer's disease gradually clouded her cognitive abilities, Annie's faith burned brightly, an unwavering beacon illuminating her path. She found solace in prayer, her spirit communing with the divine, drawing strength from an unseen source. Hymns, once sung with a powerful voice, now flowed softly from her lips, whispers of devotion carrying the weight of a lifetime's faith.

Her Bible, worn with years of use, became a cherished companion, its pages offering comfort and familiarity. She would trace the well-loved verses with her fingers, finding solace in the timeless words of scripture. Annie's unwavering belief provided an anchor in the storm of her illness, a reminder of a love that transcends earthly limitations.

Those who witnessed her journey were struck by the serenity that emanated from her. Even in the face of memory loss and confusion, a profound sense of peace enveloped her. It was as if her faith had forged an unbreakable connection to something greater than herself, a source of comfort that Alzheimer's could not extinguish. Annie's unwavering devotion served as a poignant reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can find solace and strength in faith. Her story stands as a testament to the enduring power of belief, a beacon of hope for those navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease and a source of inspiration for all who seek comfort in the face of life's uncertainties

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Annie Ruth Statham's Final Birthday

Annie Ruth possessed an ageless spirit, her zest for life undimmed by the passage of time. She cherished the bonds of family and friendship, finding joy in the company of loved ones. Gatherings, whether grand celebrations or intimate moments shared, were infused with her infectious laughter and warm embrace.

Birthdays became milestones to be marked with merriment, anniversaries were opportunities to rekindle cherished memories, and holidays transformed into vibrant celebrations filled with shared traditions and heartfelt connections. Annie Ruth was the heart of these gatherings, her presence a catalyst for laughter and shared joy.

Even as the years advanced, her enthusiasm for life remained undiminished. She delighted in the simple pleasures of a shared meal, a lively conversation, or a playful game with her grandchildren. Her home was a welcoming haven, a place where generations converged, stories were exchanged, and laughter echoed through the rooms.

Annie Ruth's enduring spirit served as a reminder that age is merely a number, and that the capacity for joy and connection knows no bounds. Her vibrant presence enriched the lives of those around her, demonstrating that the bonds of love and friendship grow stronger with time. Her legacy is one of warmth, laughter, and a celebration of life's precious moments, an inspiration to embrace every stage of life with open arms and a joyful heart.

A Legacy at the Battle of Flowers

Annie Ruth Statham was more than just a participant in San Antonio's vibrant Fiesta celebrations; she was an institution, a beloved figure whose presence was synonymous with the spirit of the city's iconic festival. Year after year, her radiant smile and infectious energy lit up the Battle of Flowers Parade, the culminating event of Fiesta, where she proudly presided over her float, a testament to her deep-rooted connection to San Antonio's cultural heritage.

Annie Ruth's float was a spectacle of creativity and joy, a vibrant expression of her personality and her love for her community. Adorned with colorful flowers, festive decorations, and the sounds of lively music, it became a symbol of her enduring spirit and her unwavering commitment to celebrating life's vibrant moments.

Her dedication to Fiesta extended beyond the parade itself. Annie Ruth was an active participant in the myriad of events that make up this cherished tradition, from lively street parties to elegant balls, her presence adding a touch of warmth and genuine camaraderie. She embraced the essence of Fiesta, a celebration of community, heritage, and the joy of living.

Now, her legacy is carried forward by her daughter, Donna Gordon, who has inherited her mother's passion for Fiesta and her commitment to preserving its traditions. Donna steps into this role with grace and determination, honoring her mother's memory by continuing the family's presence in the Battle of Flowers Parade. Her float, a tribute to Annie Ruth's vibrant spirit, will serve as a reminder of her mother's enduring impact on the community.

Even as Alzheimer's disease cast a shadow over her later years, Annie Ruth's love for Fiesta remained undimmed. Her final parade was a poignant and unforgettable occasion, a testament to her resilience and her unwavering spirit. Surrounded by the love of her family and friends, she basked in the warmth of the community, her heart filled with the joy of the celebration.

Annie Ruth's legacy extends far beyond the floats and festivities. Her unwavering optimism, her infectious enthusiasm, and her deep-seated love for her community serve as an inspiration to all who knew her. She embodied the true spirit of Fiesta, a celebration of life, love, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship.

A LEGEND SINGING

A singing legend, Annie Ruth Statham possessed a voice that resonated with audiences throughout her life. Her repertoire spanned a wide variety, encompassing everything from gospel hymns to soulful ballads, and her performances were imbued with a captivating stage presence and an undeniable passion for music.

Annie Ruth's musical journey began at a young age, her talent nurtured by renowned figures like Maydell Cherry and Arthur Newman. She honed her craft with dedication, her voice maturing into a powerful instrument that could stir emotions and captivate hearts. She graced prestigious stages, from the San Antonio Spurs basketball court, where she delivered stirring renditions of the national anthem, to the hallowed halls of the Pope's visit to San Antonio in 1987, where her rendition of "The Lord's Prayer" filled the air with reverence. Her versatility was showcased in her dramatic role as Madam Butterfly, and her recording of "Ave Maria" remains a poignant testament to the depth of her musicality.

Even as Alzheimer's disease gradually clouded her cognitive abilities, Annie Ruth's love for music remained undimmed. Music served as a powerful lifeline, a source of solace and comfort in the face of her illness. She continued to sing with others, her voice, though softened, retaining its inherent beauty and expressiveness. In the nursing home, her impromptu sing-alongs brought joy to both herself and her fellow residents, creating moments of shared connection and emotional resonance.

Annie Ruth's legacy extends far beyond the realm of music. She was a woman of unwavering faith, her spirit finding strength in prayer and hymns. She was a devoted wife and mother, her love for her family a constant source of inspiration. She was a compassionate caregiver, her heart overflowing with kindness and generosity. And she was a vibrant member of her community, her infectious laughter and warm embrace bringing joy to all who knew her.

Annie Ruth Statham's life was a symphony of music, love, faith, and service. Her voice may be silenced, but her memory continues to resonate, inspiring us to embrace the beauty of music, the power of love, and the importance of compassion in our own lives.

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Strengthening the common good and improving lives, the Annie Ruth STATHAM I Care Memory Organization provides a community focused on wellness, economic security, and social development for seniors, memory care residents, veterans, and the disabled.

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