Annie Ruth Greene Barkley

She was born in Charlotte, NC, December 9, 1934, the oldest daughter of Lester Greene and Annie Lee Wentz Greene. She was preceded in death by her parents and is survived by her sister, Carol Greene Fort (husband John L. Fort, Jr.) of Wilmington, NC, brother, David Michael Greene (wife Susan Greene) of Charlotte, NC, nieces and nephews, Christie Fort Gallagher (husband Bob) of Myrtle Beach, SC, Julie Fort Hogan (husband Rick) of Laurinburg, NC, John L. Fort (wife Kelly) of Wrightsville Beach, NC, Charlotte Fort Findley (husband Scott) of Lake Waccamaw, NC, David Ryan Greene of Charlotte, NC and Joseph Michael Greene (wife Stephanie of Belmont, NC.

She is also survived by great nieces and nephews Elizabeth Priode Worley (husband Chase), Caitlin Gallagher Schlueter, Sean Gallagher, Rebecca Priode, Harrison Priode, Bailey Fort, Raigan Fort, Lindsey Greene, Misty Greene, Daison Greene, McKynzee Greene, Memphis Greene and great-great nephews Patrick Schlueter and Kenneth Jeremiah Adams.

Annie Ruth (Anne to some) was a member of Woodlawn Baptist Church, a graduate of East Mecklenburg High School, Class of ’53, and studied music and nutrition at Central Piedmont Community College. She had the wonderful gift of music, and at the age of 13 wrote a piano piece which her teacher had copywrited. When in her teens she became the pianist for her church, Woodlawn Baptist, and then became their organist. Over the years she wrote other poems and set the words to music. She also shared her talent and love of music at other churches and in her work as an Activities Director, notably at Southminster and Merrywood.

We will forever miss her love, her sweet smile, her sassy, persnickety personality and especially the wonderful sounds only she could make as her fingers flowed over the piano keys. Annie Ruth departed this life listening to hymns with family by her side and a song in her heart.

Visitation will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at Woodlawn Baptist Church, 4622 Nations Crossing Road, Charlotte, NC, with the service immediately following. Burial will be in Rich Cemetery, Indian Trail, NC. Any memorials may be directed to Woodlawn Baptist Church.

McEwen Funeral Home, 10500 Park Road, Charlotte, NC is serving the family.