Annabeth A. Mann, formerly Annabeth Purdy, beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 1, 1938, in Joinerville, TX, to Walter B. Purdy and Florence Purdy, and grew up in Orange, TX. Annabeth graduated from Stark High School in 1956 and later earned her degree in English from Sam Houston State College in 1960, followed later by a master’s degree as a reading specialist from Houston Christian University.
Annabeth married Gerald Applewhite in 1962, and together they had three children: Roger, and twins Scott and Pamela Applewhite. Annabeth began her teaching career as a senior English teacher and moved through various other grade levels until her children were born, after which she devoted herself to being a dedicated wife and mother. Gerald was a prominent criminal defense attorney in Houston, TX and he had a tragic death in an automobile accident. Annabeth returned to school to earn her master’s degree as a reading specialist. She taught for many years at the elementary school level until she remarried and moved to El Paso, TX.
In 1992, Annabeth married John L. Mann, M.D., after reconnecting at a high school reunion. Through this marriage, she lovingly embraced his three daughters: Julia, Laura, and Janean Mann. After moving to El Paso, TX, Annabeth shared her love of teaching with preschool students at the Jewish Community Center.
Annabeth's faith was central to her life. She was a dedicated member of St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in El Paso, where she actively participated in the Agape Sunday School class and congregational care. She also served on the Staff-Parish Relations Committee and her weekly Bible study was an important part of her spiritual journey, providing fellowship and a deeper understanding of God’s word.
Annabeth’s love for books, particularly mysteries, filled her evenings, but her greatest joy was her family and her faith.
In her final moments, surrounded by family, Annabeth went home to be with the Lord, carried by her deep faith into the eternal peace of Heaven. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now resting in the presence of God.
She is preceded in death by her first husband, Gerald Applewhite, and her sister, Patricia Purdy Hall. She is survived by her husband, John L. Mann; her children, Roger (Hedieh), Scott, and Pam Applewhite; stepdaughters, Julia Bauer (John), Laura Robinson (Douglas), and Janean Mann; as well as her 10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Nancy Purdy Kissinger (John C.) and James Purdy, Ph.D. (Marilyn). Her memory and her special spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Annabeth’s memory can be made to St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, their Reading Camp, which helps young struggling readers, or the Congregational Care Program.
A celebration of her life will be held at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 11 a.m. There will be an additional service and burial in October in the Houston area.
