Martha Annette Bright

Martha "Annette" Bright, a loving wife, mother, "Mee-maw," and friend, peacefully entered the embrace of Jesus on February 23, 2024, at the age of 86. She was born in Brownsville, TN, to the late Alsey and Mildred Lovelace. Annette's journey through life was marked by a deep love for her family, church, friends, and pets. Her departure has left a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her memory, contagious smile, and love of life will remain a source of sweet memories.

Annette shared a 61-year marriage with her husband, Lawrence, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her three children, Lawrette Axley, Tommy (Jean), and Carolyn (Bill) Weirich; three grandchildren, Evan Bright, Brent (Megan) Weirich and Brittany (TJ) Goodwin; and five great-grandchildren, Lawson, Addison, and Austin Goodwin, Lillie, and Beau Weirich.

At an early age, her family moved to Memphis, TN, where she graduated from Southside High School. After earning a certificate in nutrition and dietetics from Memphis State, she became a Cafeteria Manager for Memphis City Schools and a hostess for Highland Heights Baptist Church. She then became one of the church secretaries before retirement.

Annette's faith was an integral part of her life. Her unwavering belief in the love and mercy of Jesus Christ served as a guiding light, providing solace and hope in times of joy and sorrow alike. She was a long-time member of Highland Heights Baptist Church, where she found fellowship, support, and a community that embraced her with open arms. Her passion for sports was evident as she played in the women's basketball, volleyball, and softball leagues with her church friends. She and her friends also devoted time to coaching the youth basketball and softball teams for girls at the church.

The family is grateful to Sheryl Walsh, a gifted caregiver, Crossroads Hospice, and the staff at Rainbow Rehab who attended to the many physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, always finding a way to keep her smiling over the past two years.

A graveside service for family will be held to celebrate the beautiful life of Martha "Annette" Bright. In honor of Annette's generous spirit, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, The Memphis Union Mission, or an organization of their choice in her name.

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand." - John 10:27-29