Ann cherished her role as a devoted wife and mother to her two daughters, Miki Ellis and DawnAnn (Ellis) Wilson. The family lived in several Texas communities until 1978 when they returned to make Brownwood their forever home.
After her daughters were grown, Ann pursued higher education and graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration from Howard Payne University in 1990. She then began a remarkable 21-year teaching career at Brownwood High School, where she taught Business Computer Applications and Accounting, leading the UIL accounting team to five state championships.
Ann loved her family deeply and found joy in life’s simple pleasures—fishing, playing dominos and bridge, and working jigsaw puzzles. She especially treasured the summers spent in Platoro, Colorado, a place that meant so much to her. There, her faith was evident in the way she brought people together, organizing community worship services that reflected her spirit of fellowship and devotion.
Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Mary Barclay, and her infant son Ray Merle Ellis.
She is survived by her loving husband, Jerry Ellis; her daughters, Miki Ellis of Copperas Cove, and DawnAnn (Ellis) Wilson and husband David of Stephenville; her grandchildren, Ripleigh Degenhardt and husband Jeremy, Rylant Love, Rebecca Carston and husband Robert, and Reese Wilson and wife Rachel; and four great-grandchildren, Rori, Amara, and Jesse Degenhardt, and Everly Wilson. Ann is also survived by her sisters, Janie Boyd and Donna Gordon of Brownwood.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Heartland Funeral Home with Rev. Art Woodcox officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Eastlawn Memorial Park.
Ann’s generous spirit, steadfast faith, and devotion to family and friends leave a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.
Condolences, memories, and tributes can be offered to the Ellis family at heartlandfuneralhome.net
