Annie Ree Finklea

Annie Ree Finklea, a cherished member of her family and community, passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 16, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on July 23, 1930, in Atmore, Alabama, Annie lived a life marked by love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family and faith. Annie was the beloved daughter of Eddie and Elma Trayvick Sr., who instilled in her the values of kindness and resilience. She was preceded in death by her parents, her devoted husband Robert Lee Finklea, and a loving circle of siblings, including her brothers Bill, Samuel, Robert, Eddie Jr., and Johnny Trayvick, and her sisters Gladys Souder and Berdia Minor. She also mourned the loss of her daughter Linda Darnell Lyons, grandsons Byron and Willie Jr. Finklea, great-granddaughter Paige Finklea, and great-grandson Willie E. Finklea III. Annie's life was enriched by her surviving family, who will continue to honor her legacy. She is survived by her son Willie (Marva) Finklea Sr., granddaughters Shara Finklea and Merlinda (Shawn) Mattison, and numerous great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. Her memory will also be cherished by her sisters Earnestine (William) Watts and Mary Jean Hall of Los Angeles, CA, and Margie Canty of Georgia, as well as her brother Louis (Arlene) Trayvick Sr. of Huntsville Alabama. She leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews who will remember her fondly. Annie graduated from Escambia County Training School in Atmore and pursued further education with a passion for learning that was evident throughout her life. She completed nearly all the requirements for an associate's degree in Early Childhood Education from Sinclair Community College of Dayton, Ohio, coming just one class short of her goal. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted member of Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where her service will be held. Friends and family are invited to celebrate her life on August 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1900 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45417. Annie's warmth, compassion, and generosity touched all who knew her. In honoring her memory, the family suggests donations be made to a charity of your choice or in support of organizations that promote education and community service, reflecting Annie's lifelong values and contributions. Annie Ree Finklea will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she loved.