Annie "Ann" Whitaker Pipes

Annie "Ann" Whitaker Pipes, a cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on August 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. Born on February 15, 1954, in Port Arthur, Texas, Ann was the beloved daughter of Jack and Lucy Williams. Ann's life was marked by her warm heart and her ability to bring people together. A true matriarch, she was devoted to her family, which included her siblings Johnny Shipp, Ronald Shipp and his wife Carol, William "Bill" Shipp and his wife Kathleen, and Jayson Griffen. Her children, Wesley Burch and his wife Megan, Frances Burns and her husband Richard, James Stotts and his wife Stephanie, Tshea Stotts, George Mings, and Cynthia, were the pride of her life. She was also blessed with 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, who lovingly called her their guiding star. Ann was predeceased by her dear friends, Carl and Victoria Smires, who shared many cherished moments with her. She found companionship in her marriages to Audrey "Buster" Burch, Silas "Eddie" Stotts, Jerry Whitaker, George Mings, and Johnny "John" Pipes, each chapter enriching her life in unique ways. A true Texan at heart, Ann spent most of her life in Kingtown, Nacogdoches County, where she raised her family and ran her beloved pool hall, the Swamp Rat. Later in life, she settled in Grigsby in Shelby County, where she continued to touch the lives of those around her. Ann was not only a devoted family woman but also a natural matchmaker. Her knack for playing cupid brought countless hearts together, and her efforts always seemed to end in love. She surrounded herself with the joy of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the center of her universe. A private funeral service will be held on September 5, 2026, at 10:00 AM, as Ann would have wished—to be celebrated intimately by those she loved the most. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Ann’s memory, ensuring her spirit of kindness continues to touch those in need. Ann's life was a testament to the power of love and connection. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and she will be dearly missed.