Ann Witherington Morton, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2023, in Dothan, Alabama, the same city where she was born on December 27, 1929.
Ann was a woman of great faith, always putting others before herself. She was a beacon of love and selflessness, touching the lives of everyone she met. Her spirit was characterized by her faith-filled nature, always trusting in God's plan and using her life as a testament to His grace.
Born and reared in Dothan, Ann graduated from Dothan High School in 1947. She continued her education at the University of Alabama, earning a Bachelor's degree in 1951. Her time at the university was marked by her involvement in the Tri Delta Sorority, where she formed lifelong friendships and honed her leadership skills.
Following her graduation, Ann returned to Newton, where she became an active member of the Newton Baptist Church. She taught Sunday school, held various positions, and was known as a prayer warrior within her church community. Ann's faith was not only evident in her church activities but also in her daily life. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and her love for history led her to author two books: "History of Newton Baptist Church" and "History of Dale Baptist Association."
Ann was predeceased by her parents, James Henry and Janie Milligan Witherington, her husband, William Morton, and her sister and brother-in-law, Martha and Frank Hays. She is survived by her sons, Tom (Carol) Morton and Bill (Nichole) Morton; her brother, Ed (Burke) Witherington; and her grandchildren, Suzanne (Ryan) Richards, Thomas (Emily) Morton, William Morton, Nicholas Morton, and Henry Morton. She also leaves behind her great-grandchildren, Caroline Richards, Clark Richards, and Kristen Morton, as well as a host of loving nieces and nephews.
In all her roles - as a mother, grandmother, sister, and friend - Ann exemplified love and selflessness. Her unwavering faith, her devotion to her family, and her service to her community will always be remembered. Her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched and the lessons of faith, love, and kindness she instilled in those around her.
Whether teaching a Sunday school class, authoring a book, or praying for those in need, Ann put her heart and soul into everything she did. Her life was a testament to a faith-filled, selfless, and loving existence. Today, as we mourn her loss, we also celebrate a life well-lived, honoring Ann's enduring impact and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.
May the memory of Ann Witherington Morton, a woman of faith and love, continue to inspire us all. She will be greatly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, October 1, 2023 at 3:00 pm at Newton Baptist Church with Rev. Shane Traylor and Rev. Danny Bynum officiating. Burial will follow in Newton City Cemetery. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall from 2:00 until service time.