Annabell Sweeney Ames

Annabell Sweeney Ames passed away on October 1, 2024, at 85. She was born on June 29, 1939, in San Antonio, Texas. Annabell lived a life characterized by her vibrant spirit and a flair for the beautiful and unique.

She was the beloved wife of the late George J. Ames and the loving mother of two sons, the late Edward Sweeney Ames and George Scott Ames, mother-in-law to Meredith Ames and Sarah Ames, and an adoring grandmother to Henry and Madeleine. Aunt to a host of nephews and a niece.

In keeping with her great sense of humor and planning, Annabell surprised her parents, Annabell & Edward Sweeney, who had been married for over 18 years when she made her debut. They doted on their beautiful little girl gifting her with a magical childhood. Annabell attended Saint Mary’s Hall and forged friendships there that lasted her lifetime. Her circle of friends joined her on adventures and experiences through the years. They spoke and saw each other almost daily until the end.

Annabell was a proud alumna of Sweet Briar College in Virginia and the University of Texas in Austin. Like many young students of the time, she traveled to school by train to begin her time in higher education. In 1959, Annabell transferred to the University and joined Pi Beta Phi sorority where she completed her education.

Of all her crowning achievements, one of the most memorable was serving as Queen of Fiesta in 1963. Her mischievous side came out as she kept her selection by the Order of the Alamo secret until she was presented at the Coronation. She loved the surprise on the faces of her friends when she was announced. To say Annabell enjoyed the spotlight that being Queen of Fiesta provided her would be an understatement. She thrived at the parties and events, as a city dignitary. She was even present when JFK visited the city before that fateful day in Dallas. She had the unique honor of being the only woman to be Queen of Fiesta twice after the young lady chosen for the following year got sick and could not perform her duties.

Her escort as queen was George J. Ames, a young man who had never been far from her side since they were young teenagers in Terrell Hills. After her time as a debutante had ended and almost all their friends were married, they finally found each other. Intending to keep their engagement a secret, it was announced in the Express-News with the headline “Valuable Ring Lost” and identified the young couple. The ring was eventually found but all now knew about the pending nuptials. Over 900 people attended their wedding in the backyard of her childhood home where she would live until her last day. Theirs was a romance of the ages and lasted more than fifty years. There is comfort in knowing that they are now back together.

In 1975, Annabell's entrepreneurial spirit led her to start the gift boutique Apropos, which quickly became the go-to spot for those seeking gifts with a personal touch. Her business acumen and eye for detail were further evidenced in 1985 when she bought Hanley-Wood Fine Gifts, transforming it into a premier destination for exquisite gifts and home decor. Her passion for the business was not just in the numbers but in the joy of creating beautiful displays and curating a collection that reflected her unique and elegant taste. Annabell's creativity flowed freely and she could see the use of almost anything to make beautiful eclectic decorations, crafting pieces like wreaths and crosses from broken china and glass ornaments from her store.

She was described by those who knew her as sophisticated, creative, elegant, and playful. These qualities were put to good use as the Order of the Alamo’s Mistress of the Robes for the Court of Resplendent Arts during the 1998 Fiesta season. She also volunteered her time and talent to the Charity Ball Association, The Junior League, The Green Hand Garden Club, The Humane Society, and the Republican Party.

Annabell's life was one of celebration, her presence was a source of comfort and inspiration. Her ability to see potential and beauty in the everyday inspired many to view their surroundings with a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation. We remember a woman whose life was as colorful and vibrant as the mosaics she loved to make. Her absence will be deeply felt by those who were fortunate enough to know her, but her spirit will continue to live on in the memories she created, the businesses she developed, the creations she shared with the world, and her unwavering commitment to family and community. She will be dearly missed, but her light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.

A special thank you to Martin Manriquez. He was always there for Annabell and saw to her every need.

A Celebration of Life honoring Annabell will take place at a later time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the animal charity of your choice.