Annie Mae Gavin

Louisiana. Annie was known by friends and family as Anna.

Annie was the second child of four siblings, born to Permelia Johnson and Wesley Mason, and raised by Perry McNeil. Her mother Permelia and young-er brother Charles James preceded her in death, also younger sister Idola Yates preceded her in death.

Annie has 8 living children, Willie Charles Gavin Jr, Oliver Gavin, Sheila Gavin, Cynthia Gavin, Chiquita Gavin, Lisa Thomas Clemon (Rell Clemon), Shirley Gavin and Lawanda Gavin. She is also survived by her sister, Bessie Hayes, 18 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Annie attended Lindbloom High, she was married at the age of 16 years old to Willie Charles Gavin Sr. and later divorced and Annie

remained a single parent.

Annie worked at Oak Forest Hospital as a Dietary Aide, she enjoyed garden-ing and Home Interior decorating. She loved to see the fresh vegetables grow in her garden, she enjoyed Drama and Investigative movies. Loving music was natural for Annie, she particularly loved the song “Respect Yourself” by Aretha Franklin.

Annie was well known in her neighborhood, as well as the surrounding neigh-borhoods for selling Chicago Defender papers and Jet Magazines every week-end. Her sales were very good, and this was done at the age of 11!

The one thing I’ll always remember about my mother is the quote from:

Bible Proverb 4:7 -

“Above all things, get an understanding”

Psalm 69:16-21:

Answer me, LORD, out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me. Do not hide your face from your servant; answer me quickly, for I am in trouble. Come near and rescue me; deliver me because of my foes. You know how I am scorned, disgraced and shamed; all my enemies are before you. Scorn has broken my heart and has left me helpless.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.