Annie Mae Coston Gary was born on Oct. 28, 1921, in Nansemond County to the late James and Sallie Boone Coston, who were some of the original founders of Canaan Baptist Church. Annie was preceded in death by two brothers, Willie Coston and James Coston; two sisters, Mary Eure and Rebecca Pierce.

She was educated at the Rosenwald School and graduated from East Suffolk High School in 1942. Annie went on to attend Norfolk State College for one year. In 1940, Annie became the wife of the late James T. Gary, and from that union six children were born.

As a member of Canaan Baptist Church from a young age, Annie served the church in many auxiliaries such as the Missionary Circle, Busy Bee Garden Club, Usher Board, choir and as a member of the Sunday School. She earned the title of deaconess and served in that capacity for more than 30 years, including several years as the chair of the Deaconess Board.

Annie’s love of people was never more evident than when considering the many years she worked as a nurse’s aide at Hillcrest Nursing Center (Nansemond Pointe), from which she retired and served diligently caring for others as a private duty nurse. She also worked a few years as a hairdresser.

She leaves to cherish her memory six children, William Tyrone (Yolanda), James T. Jr. (Margaret), Patricia Green, Sandra Everett (Barry), Anthony (Elizabeth), and John Kevin (Tonya); grandchildren, Michael Gary, Lisa Gary, Rebecca Banks, Rosalyn Gary, Barry Jenon Everett, Rhonda Shepherd, Nicole Kirksey, Derek Gary, Melvin Green, Sherica Green, Jon-Keith Gary and Jordan Gary; 13 great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held at noon, Friday, Nov. 22, 2013, at Canaan Baptist Church officiated by Pastor Michael T. Bell. Interment will be in Canaan Baptist Church Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21 at Crocker Funeral Home. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.crockerfuneralhome.com.