Elizabeth Marchbanks

Elizabeth “Ann” Baker Marchbanks, age 72, of McDonough, Georgia passed away peacefully on January 12, 2024. Ann was born on November 2, 1951 to the late George and Francis Baker. Ann was united in marriage to Gilbert Neal Marchbanks on July 12, 1975 and celebrated 47 years of marriage before his passing in March.

Ann was born in Grove Park, GA but later moved to Sylvan Hills during elementary school. Ann’s claim to fame was being the high school mascot and was still affectionately referred to as Baker, the Golden Bear by her friends and classmates. After graduation from Sylvan Hills High School in 1969, Ann attended Young Harris College in the North Georgia Mountains. Ann worked for the Atlanta Public Schools and Atlanta Area Tech prior to finding herself at Southern Bell in the Directory Department. Ann was highly respected for the way she led her employees, the humor she brought to the workplace and kindness she spread to all. Ann’s achievements at work were recognized by earning President’s Cup several times, which awarded her and Neal a trip to Hawaii to play golf. After 29 years and several company name changes, Ann retired from AT & T, but remained friends with many co-workers.

Ann loved the game of golf and had an incredibly supportive circle of friends through the Heron Bay Ladies Golf Association, where she previously served as President. She was a member of National Heights Church and taught Sunday School and Assisted the Youth Group in years past. Ann and Neal were also active in the Yaarab Temple.

Ann was truly happiest, when she was surrounded by the love of her family. She unselfishly cared for Neal for years and was so proud of all his accomplishments in life. And when talking about her children and grandchildren, she absolutely beamed. She always enjoyed watching videos of their activities, talking about the Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves and keeping involved even from afar.

Ann was so touched by the outpouring of love and support shown to her, especially over the last six weeks. To know Ann, was to love her. And loved she was. Her presence will be missed by so many, but we know her spirit lives on in each of us, just as she reminded us it would.

Ann is survived by her children; Matt (Amy) of Cazenovia, New York and Lynn (William) Cooper of Jacksonville, Florida; seven grandchildren, Elisabeth (Maclay) Stratford, Ryan, Kennedy and Cason Marchbanks; Joshua, Emily and Abigail Cooper; a great grandchild due in March; her brother in law, Paul (Nancy) Marchbanks; nephews Tim (Cheryl) Marchbanks, Bill (Anita) Baker, Erik (Miriam) Baker; sister in law, Carol Heirs; nine great nieces and nephews.

The family would like to acknowledge Capstone Hospice for providing exceptional care to Ann, allowing her comfort and peace in her final weeks.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ann’s memory can be made to Capstone Hospice, 5550 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 150, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092.

Memorial services will be held at 1:00 pm, Thursday, January 18, 2024 at Haisten Funeral Home, McDonough. The family will receive family and friends 1 hour prior to the service. A burial will be held 3pm at Sherwood Memorial Park, Jonesboro.