Anne Ruth Thomas

Anne Ruth Thomas, affectionately known as “Mother”, “Ms.Anne” “Mamaw,” Sister Thomas, “Queen,” and “Lady Bug,” passed away peacefully of natural causes on October 22, 2025, in Miami, Florida, at the age of 87.

Born on February 11, 1938, in Fitzgerald, Georgia, Anne Ruth Thomas was the only child of Ruby L. Thomas and Lamar Paschal, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also predeceased by her siblings Edward, William, and Rachel Paschal; her daughter, Constance L. Thomas; and grandsons Martin Lee Mann II and Evan Schottenheimer.

Anne graduated from Monitor Senior High and later earned her degree from Barry University. She pursued further studies in Early Childhood Development and Educational Administration at Nova Southeastern University.

Her distinguished 30-year career in education included roles with Miami-Dade County Parks & Recreation, Catholic Service Bureau, Miami-Dade College, and Senior Centers of Dade County. She served as a Career Specialist and Team Leader at several schools, concluding her service at Allapattah Middle School in 2004.

Anne was deeply involved in student development initiatives, including the In-School Students Chamber of Commerce, Girl Power After School Program, and the 5000 Role Models of Excellence. She held leadership roles such as Test Chairperson, TEC Representative, and Team Leader for Exceptional Student Education. Her coordination of Career Day earned widespread recognition for her commitment to student success.

Her accolades include the Teacher Appreciation Award, Outstanding Achievement Award, Student Services Support Award, and the Outstanding Loyalty and Dedication Award from Allapattah Middle School. She also received honors from the Southern District of Florida United States Courts and her church community.

Anne was affiliated with United Teachers of Dade, NAACP, Miami-Dade Career Specialist Association, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. She was named Teacher of the Year in 1985 and 1986, and Teacher of the Month in 1987.

Anne was a devoted member of Greater New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church for over 50 years; a commitment she considered her most meaningful life’s work. She took great pride in her service, which included teaching Sunday School, singing with the Voices of Bethel, and actively participating in the Pastor’s Aide Auxiliary, Mission Department, and Mother’s Board. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, often echoing the cherished words of her grandmother, Geneva Boone: “I thank God for Jesus.”

Anne will be remembered for her elegance, signature hats, generous spirit, and love of worship. She found joy in travel and was renowned for her cooking, especially her beloved cakes that brought family and friends together.

She is survived by her daughter, Rhonda “Pam” Thomas-Schottenheimer; grandsons Austin Schottenheimer and Adolphus Bernard Thomas; great-grandchildren Justice, Santonio, Dreon, Mayvrk, and Sierra; great-great-grandchildren Khloee Noelle, Kamryn Rose, Sarabi, Nylah, and Jasiri; as well as many cousins, relatives, and friends.