Annabeth Mann (Applewhite) a cherished wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of God, passed away on September 5, 2024, at her home in El Paso surrounded by her loving family.
Born on April 1, 1938, in Joinerville, Texas, to Walter B. and Florence Purdy, Annabeth grew up in Orange Texas. She was a graduate of Stark High School (1956) and Sam Houston State College (1960), where she earned her degree in English and served as Rush Chairman for the Alpha Chi Omega Sorority. Annabeth’s teaching career began at Memorial High School, where she taught Senior English before transitioning through various grade levels. In 1962, Annabeth married Gerald Applewhite. They faced the sorrow of losing their first child, Roger Todd, at birth but later completed their family with children:Roger, and twins Scott and Pamela.
After her children were born, Annabeth devoted herself to her family and raising her children. Gerald began his legal career as a state prosecutor in the Harris County District Attorney’s office, transitioned to federal prosecution with the Southern District of Texas, and eventually established a distinguished criminal defense practice in Houston. In August 1978, Gerald’s life was tragically cut short by a fatal automobile accident. Annabeth exhibited remarkable sacrifice and dedication while raising her three young children and relied on family and friends for support while she returned to school to obtain higher education. Demonstrating exceptional fortitude, she earned a master’s degree in reading from Houston Baptist University by attending evening classes while teaching at Pines Presbyterian School during the day. Her unwavering perseverance and steadfast dedication during this challenging period underscore her remarkable resilience and commitment. Annabeth, a loyal participant in both Chapelwood Methodist Church and Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, pursued her dedication to community involvement and spiritual growth through her active role in church activities and volunteer efforts.
In 1992, after reconnecting at their high school reunion, she married John L. Mann, MD in Houston. After moving to El Paso, she lovingly embraced his three daughters: Julia, Laura, and Janean Mann—as integral parts of her family. Additionally, Annabeth continued to share her passion for teaching with preschool students at the Jewish Community Center.Annabeth’s deep faith was a central pillar of her life, profoundly reflected in her active involvement at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in El Paso. Annabeth’s contributions to the Agape Sunday School Class, Congregational Care, and the Staff-Parish Relations Committee were a testament of her commitment to her community and her spiritual life. While Annabeth cherished Bible study, she was also an avid reader with a particular fondness for mystery novels, which offered both pleasure and relaxation. Above all, her greatest joys were her family and her faith, which brought her immense happiness and fulfillment.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Walter B. and Florence Purdy; first child, Roger Todd, first husband, Gerald Applewhite and sister, Patricia Purdy Hall. Annabeth is survived by her devoted, husband, John L. Mann MD; her cherished children, Roger, Scott, and Pam Applewhite; stepdaughters: Julia Bauer, Laura Robinson and Janean Mann; as well as her 10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, all who brought her immense joy. She is also fondly remembered by her siblings, Nancy Purdy Kissinger and James Purdy, PhD.
Her memory and the warmth of her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor her memory through donations to St. Mark’s United Methodist Church for their Reading Camp or the Congregational Care Program.
A heartfelt celebration of Annabeth’s life will take place at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in El Paso.
An additional Celebration of Life will take place at Chapelwood United Methodist Church, located at 11140 Greenbay Street, Houston Texas, 77024 on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. with a reception immediately following. Private graveside inurnment services will be in the Sanders Family Cemetery in Magnolia, TX.
Annabeth will be dearly missed and her presence forever cherished in our hearts for the boundless love and joy she so generously shared with us all.
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