Annie Lanier Massey was born in Madison, South Carolina on March 22, 1931. She then moved to Toccoa, and then moved to Columbus, Georgia, where she lived until 1966, when the family moved to Huntsville, AL.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, John W. Massey, Sr., daughter Patricia Blackwell, father Vester Lanier, mother Minnie Lanier, brothers Frank Lanier, Robert Lanier, Lee Lanier and Wade Lanier, and sister Myrtle Lanier.
She is survived by her son: John W. Massey, Jr. and wife Beth; son-in-law: Randy Blackwell; sister: Carolyn Dooley (Dean); brother: Fleming Lanier; grandchildren: Rhett Blackwell (Sarah), Blake Massey (Michal) and Michelle Massey (fiance Tim); and many nieces and nephews.
Anne and her husband were charter members of Willowbrook Baptist Church where they served in many roles throughout the years. For Anne, that servitude began in the nursery working with babies and culminated with being a greeter, welcoming people as they entered the church doors, with many roles in between.
She was a talented seamstress who sewed for thousands, of which many were second and even third generation customers. Anne made many mothers and daughters happy with those Anne’s Originals prom, recital, bridesmaids and even wedding dresses as well as cheerleading outfits, costumes and many many alterations. While Anne primarily worked with womens clothing, she certainly hemmed her fair share of mens pants and baseball uniforms.
Anne was known as a master gardener, always spending a great deal of time in her flower beds and her vegetable garden. She had the ultimate “green thumb” which was evidenced by the beautiful flowers both in her house and her flowerbeds, as well as her never ending supply of canned vegetables and fruits, which she gladly shared with her family and friends.
Contributions may be made to the Keenagers at Willowbrook Baptist Church.
Mrs. Massey will lie in state Tuesday, January 4, 2022 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at Willowbrook Baptist Church on Bailey Cove Rd. Service will follow at 1:00 with Dr. Mark McClelland officating. Burial will be at Maple Hill Cemetery.
