Jeanette Lucille McAnally

Jeanette Lucille McAnally, 79, passed away unexpectedly from a brief illness on Monday, May 4, 2026, in Austin, Texas.

Jeanette was born on June 26, 1946, in Moline, Illinois, to Virginia Day Ward and Byron Mitchell Ward. She grew up in Odessa, Texas, and graduated from Permian High School in 1964. In 1969, she made Austin her home, where she built a life centered around family, friendship, and the city she loved so dearly. She treasured the endless days spent water skiing on Lake Travis, time on the golf course sharing her husband’s passion for the game, joyfully hosting family events, celebrating life and milestones with dear friends, and proudly cheering on the Texas Longhorns as a devoted fan.

Jeanette built a successful career as a real estate agent in the Greater Austin area beginning in the early 1980s. Over the years, she became known not only for her dedication and strong work ethic but also for the genuine kindness and warmth she shared with everyone she met. She carried that same caring spirit into her retail years at J.Jill until her retirement in 2024. Whether through her work, friendships, or family, Jeanette had a gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents, Virginia and Byron Ward of Odessa, Texas; her husband, Michael Arnold McAnally of Austin, Texas; her son, Harmon Daren Smith of Austin, Texas; her sisters, Barbara Gayle Bledsoe of Leander, Texas, and Robin Ellen DeMaio of Round Rock, Texas; and her brother, James Byron Ward of Odessa, Texas.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Karolyn Denise Meuth, and her husband, Edward Meuth; and her grandchildren, Andrew Byron Wallace and wife Allison, Matthew Tyler Wallace, and Trey Michael Wallace, who brought immense joy and pride to her life.

She is also survived by her stepson, Brett Arnold McAnally, and his wife, Christine; her grandchildren, Anthony Steward and wife Lilly, Nick Woodyard, Emalee Dunagan and husband CJ, and Jake McAnally; and her stepdaughter, Suzanne McAnally, and her grandchildren, Ally Anderson, Hannah Anderson, and Doak Anderson.

She is survived by her sister, Sandra Lee Smith and husband Cleo Smith of San Antonio, Texas. Jeanette also leaves behind her beloved family member and dear friend, Marian Mansperger, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and treasured friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. She had a special love for her precious fur babies, Pippa, Bella, Prissy, and Jaxx.

Jeanette will be remembered for her strength, independence, quick wit, infectious smile, signature scarlet-red lipstick, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her laughter, compassion, and vibrant spirit brought comfort and joy to so many. The memories she created and the love she shared will continue to live on in all who knew her.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Ascension Seton Northwest, as well as the compassionate Compassus care team, for their kindness, support, and exceptional care provided to Jeanette and her family.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date to honor Jeanette.

“The beauty of the soul is constant, continuous, and endless.”