Mary Ann, Memmy, Askenburg, aged 88, passed away in July 2024, in Huntsville, Alabama.
Mary Ann spent her life nurturing those around her with her kindness and love. She leaves
behind a legacy of warmth, marked by her profound care for both people and animals.
Mary Ann dedicated her professional life to education, nurturing young minds at Memorial
Baptist Kindergarten in Metairie, Louisiana and the Lawrence County Christian School in
Moulton, Alabama. Her commitment to community and country was further demonstrated
through her membership with the Stephens Chapter DAR in Decatur, Alabama, serving as
Chapter Regent for several terms. Her love for genealogy and family also intertwined with her
hobbies, alongside caring for her pets—dogs, cats, and horses—and regularly enjoying a cup of
coffee.
Her family was the cornerstone of her life. Mary Ann was a devoted wife to her husband Don,
for 70 years. She was a loving mother to her son, Bill Askenburg, and his wife, Janet, and she
cherished her daughter, Cathy Fonda, who preceded her in death. Memmy's joy was multiplied
by her grandchildren, Will Fonda and Trace Askenburg, and her great-grandsons, Abe, Ruxton,
and Elijah. Her extended family, including sister-in-law Fay Walker, nieces Liz Walker, Susan
and Sandy Motes, Tina and Tammy Schooley, and Brenda Lenz, nephews Michael Lenz,
Johnny and Mikey Walker and cousins Cindy Barrett, Judy Primm, Niki Alexander, Ginger and
Chris Brooks and their sons Christian and Lane, will miss her deeply.
Mary Ann requested that there will be no memorial services. In lieu of flowers, contributions may
be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization close to Mary Ann’s heart.
Ridouts Brown-Service Funeral Home in Decatur, Alabama, is assisting the family during this
time. Mary Ann’s life was a testament to her generous caring spirit and enduring love, leaving
an indelible mark on all who knew her.
