Elizabeth Ann Fikes Joiner passed away at 92 on Friday, January 24. The family welcomes friends to First Baptist Church Tuscumbia on Wednesday, January 29, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., with a celebration of her life immediately following at 1 p.m.
Ann was born on October 6, 1932, in Hamilton, Alabama. She studied classical music at The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa and was married to Jesse, her soulmate, for over 50 years. As a fifth-grade teacher for 26 years, Ann had a special place in her heart for the school where she spent most of her time, “the Village” or C.M. Brewster School in Sheffield.
A teacher both during and after school, she enjoyed teaching local children piano lessons. Ann was known for being able to read music and play by ear, easily switching between classical and popular songs on the ivory keys of her 1920 Steinway grand. She was an avid reader and loved British mystery writers like Agatha Christie. Being gifted with language, she earned her Master of Arts in English from the University of North Alabama while working and being a mother to her three children.
Ann was a lifelong follower of Christ and found community at First Baptist Tuscumbia for decades. Along with reading and music, she loved genealogy, cooking, and cheering on Alabama football with a group of friends called the Baptist Bama Girls. One of her greatest joys in life was also spending time with her grandchildren.
After retiring from teaching, Ann spent much of her time traveling. She loved walking the beach in beautiful Ft. Morgan, Alabama, often with her beloved golden retriever, Eme. With her husband Jesse, she went on mission trips to places like England and Spain. Her friendships, especially beach trips with her “sister” Patsy Horton, brought Ann immeasurable happiness in life. Ann and Jesse gave back to their community through volunteering and attending countless concerts, local art exhibits, and plays at the Ritz Theatre in Sheffield.
Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse Joiner, Jr.; her parents, Acolee and Carrie Fikes; and her brother, Guy Fikes. Ann is survived by her children, Jesse Joiner III (Kellye), Laura Allen (Mark), and Chris Joiner (Carol); and grandchildren, Ashley Steenson, William Joiner, Eleanor Ann Joiner, Lindsey Joiner, and Sarah Caroline Joiner.
Along with family and faith, education was the most important thing in Ann’s life. Like many of her generation, she believed education was the key to the American dream, as well as a personally and spiritually fulfilling life. She believed that no matter where you are in life, there is no limit to the power of books and libraries and where they can take you. In honor of Ann’s love of learning, memorials can be made to Sheffield Public Library at 316 N. Montgomery Ave.
Please visit morrisonfuneralhomes.com to leave tributes and condolences for the family.
