Ann Marie McCallister

Ann Marie McCallister, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away on February 12, 2026, in Bonifay, Florida, at the age of 87. Born in Dothan, Alabama, on August 28, 1938, to the late James Lee and Evelyn Walker Hartzog, Ann's early years were spent surrounded by the warmth and charm of southern living.

Ann's journey through life was one of devotion and joy. She was the cherished wife of the late Gerald McCallister, with whom she shared 64 beautiful years. Together, they built a legacy of love that is carried on by their daughters, Cindi (Dave) Pittman, Karen Stephens, Meg Russell, and April (Shane) Busby. Her grandchildren, Ben Givens, Josh Ellison, Jeremy (Katie) Ellison, Lindsey (Jeff) Darby, Conner Busby, Chase Busby, and Amie (David) Casey, along with her great-grandchildren, Sara Beth Givens, Lawson Givens, Henry Ellison, Emmett Ellison, Harper Darby, Rhett Darby, and Blakely Casey were the lights of her life.

Ann's siblings, Bob Hartzog, Lyn Smith, and Beth Smith, along with several nieces and nephews, will remember her as a pillar of strength. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald, and her siblings, Helen Mathis, Joe Hartzog, Joyce Tice, Jimmy Hartzog, Buddy Hartzog, Terry Dasinger, and Beverly Freeman.

A woman of many interests, Ann's zest for life was evident in her love for playing golf, solving crossword puzzles, and engaging in spirited games of Yahtzee. She lit up the dance floor at every opportunity and was often found cheering on her beloved Atlanta Braves. Gardening brought her joy (and pain).

Ann embraced a life of adventure alongside her beloved husband during his service in the United States Air Force. Together, they journeyed across the country and around the world, creating memories in places such as Arkansas, Texas, Louisianna, Canada, Turkey, Panama City, Spain, and Okinawa. Each new assignment brought fresh experiences, lifelong friendships. No matter where they were stationed, Ann’s warmth and resilience turned every house into a home, and her unwavering support was a steady source of strength throughout their travels.

Ann's life will be celebrated with a service on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 11:30 am at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Shelly Chandler officiating. Her final resting place will be beside her beloved Gerald at Sunset Memorial Park, a testament to their enduring love. Before the service, the family will receive friends from 10:30-11:30 am at the funeral home, sharing memories and honoring Ann's legacy. David Pittman, Shane Busby, Ben Givens, Josh Ellison, Jeremy Ellison, and Conner Busby will serve as active pallbearers, honoring her with their service. Bob Hartzog, Jeff Darby, and Chase Busby will serve as honorary pallbearers, standing in tribute to a life well-lived.

Ann Marie McCallister's life was a portrait of love and kindness. She will be deeply missed by those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy will continue to bloom in the hearts of her family and friends, much like the gardens she so lovingly tended. Ann's memory will be cherished forever, as a reminder of the beauty and grace she brought into the world.