Permelia Ann Sanders

Permelia Ann Sanders passed away on Monday April 29, 2024.  Born in Monroeville, Alabama on May 15, 1933, Ann was the only child of Ralph Marion and Permelia Snell Lazenby.  She married Francis Sanders in 1949, when she was 16 years old, and they raised their family in DeFuniak Springs.  Ann was an active member of First Baptist Church of DeFuniak Springs for many years, and she treasured her Sunday School class there.  

Ann was an amazing wife and mother.  She and Francis had three children – Sallie, Mary Ann, and Harper.  Ann loved all of her children fiercely, but her baby boy, Harper (whom she called Hoppa) was some kind of special!  He could always get a smile out of her.  Along with her children, the family dachshund, Wrinkles, was also the recipient of many years of being loved and spoiled by Ann.

After devoting many years to raising her children, Ann enjoyed working at The Gift Bar in DeFuniak Springs.  In her time working there, she gained a group of special ladies who were added to her “dear friend” list.  She had many friends that gathered for afternoon coffee and “the bridge girls” who got together weekly to play bridge.  Her bridge partners changed over the years, but the group never dissipated.  Her last bridge game was played about a month ago!

Ann will be long remembered for her selflessness and for her sweet southern accent!  A conversation with Ann would not easily be forgotten as her accent was the essence of Southern. It was known to truly warm the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her.  She was a great southern cook.  She was also incredibly giving, genuinely kind, and an unwavering Christian who never had an unkind word to say to or about anyone.  She leaves behind many who will treasure the memories of times being blessed by her. 

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years and her parents. 

She is survived by her children Sallie Husband (Michael), Mary Ann Schissler (George), and Harper Sanders III, her grandchildren – Niles King, Jr, Kristen Howell, George D Schissler Jr, Casey Schissler, Harper Sanders IV, and Hunter Sanders, and her great-grandchildren – Pete Howell, Rubye Howell, Niles King III, George D Schissler III, Annie Rae Schissler, June Schissler, and Samuel Sanders.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to One Hopeful Place in Fort Walton Beach or to another charity of your choice.