of Little Rock, AR
July 29, 1936 - March 12, 2009
Our beloved Mom and ''MeMe'', Annabeth Lawrence Vittitow, of Little Rock, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Thursday, March 12, 2009. She was born July 29, 1936 in Tuckerman, Arkansas. After graduating from Tuckerman High School in 1954, she attended Arkansas State Teachers College (UCA), and graduated in 1958 with a degree in Elementary Education.
She taught one year of school at Woodruff Elementary, when she met the love of her life, Pat. A few short months later, she was married and began her journey as an Air Force wife. She lived in Idaho, California, Japan, and Blytheville, Arkansas. Eventually, she and her family retired in North Little Rock.
Annabeth was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Anna Lawrence, and her husband of 48 years, Pat Vittitow. She is survived by one son and two daughters; Patrick Vittitow (Paula), Margie Brinker (Scott), and Betsy Raiford (Bill). She is also survived by four grandchildren whom she absolutely adored, Joshua and Noah Brinker and Josiah and Annabeth Raiford. They were the light of her life!
Annabeth had a host of friends from childhood, college, and her church life. She cherished them all. She loved to visit, laugh, and she always wanted to be on the go. It was evident to all that she loved the Lord. Though she is greatly missed, we are rejoicing in the fact that her eyesight is crystal clear, and she is once again holding hands with her Pat.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 15, 2009, at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home Chapel, (501)224-8300. The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home. Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, March 16, 2009 at Arkansas State Veterans' Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to American Diabetes Association, 320 Executive Court, Suite 104, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205 or to Arkansas Regional Organ Recovery Agency (ARORA) 110 North University, Suite 200, Little Rock, Arkansas 72207.
We felt your loss when we heard of Annabeth. You have our greatest sympathy, and our hearts are truly saddened. Annabeth was a wonderful person; she was kind and considerate. And, we know that her passing will not only leave a void in your lives, but in the hearts of all those who knew her. Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you.
Wih our deepest sympathy,
Rich, Amy, Becky, Shannon, Jonathan, Joseph, & Joshua
I was so saddened to hear today of your sweet mom's death from a mutual college friend and sorority sister. Annie was a special "big sister". She was such a wonderful Christian example to all of us. I was so glad I was able to keep up with her through the years, when we would get together for sorority reunions, especially when I lived in North Little Rock. I have continued to think of her often, since we moved nine years ago.
It was great to be able to meet you "kids". She treasured you so very much, as well as her precious grandkids.
May God hold you in his loving arms, as you remember her many blessings to you.
"Muzzy"
One of the true friends that I made when I joined the third grade class of Tuckerman school in 1945 was Annabeth. I always felt close to her even thought we saw each other only rarely. Each time I saw her it was as if we were were continuing from the previous day. Something in my live wil be missing knowing that she is gone.but I know that she is ina a happier place now.
We will miss Annabeth and her sweet spirit. I know that she is rejoicing with her loved ones in the presence of the Lord. We can all look to her as an inspiration to us when we go through our trials. May you feel the peace and presence of the Lord during this difficult time.
It was very obvious, from the first time I layed eyes on Annabeth, that she loved the Lord. Her face lit up like a ray of sunshine. My memories of her will forever be in my heart. Mine and my families prayers are with all of her family. She will be greatly missed...until we meet again some day. God bless all of you!
Love,
Curtis, Julie and Jared Watson
Margie and Betsy, I know the LORD Jesus is holding you girls up with HIS presence as you face the reality that your dear Mom is no longer present with you. Martha Gregory sent me notice of Annabeth's Homegoing. You will see her again and you can see her now in your mind's eye...what joy is hers! I have such sweet memories of fun times in your home in the country...it's been 25 years! I wish I could have been there, Betsy, to accompany you on the piano as you sang, "We Shall Behold Him". AND WE SHALL! The comfort of the Lord be yours. Love, Jan Grisham
I have happy memories of Aunt Annabeth. It's nice to know she is together with Uncle Pat again. God bless.
Your cousin,
Shonnee Vittitow Conery
What a wonderful mother the Lord gave to you three kids. She loved you with a passion and was so proud of you and your spouses and her grandchildren. She was funny, gentle, kind, caring and a good friend to many. Amy has always said she loved coming to your home because she felt LOVED and special. AnnaBeth made people feel that way--she put others first. The last time I recall speaking with her she was full of stories of her children/grandchildren. I remember she especially was so proud of Scott, how he was a "rock" when Pat was so ill, how he ministered to Pat, took care of him and even though Scott was so tired, never complained. I know we will see her again because of the hope we have in Jesus. Keep close as a family as families sometimes stray from each other when the parents have gone before them--this will be a wonderful legacy for your children and grandchildren. Love to all. Kay
Praying for you!
Margie,
We've been praying that God will give you a season of peace and rest.
Ed and Carolyn
Margie and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May our Lord continue to bless you and your family during this time. Thanks for your friendship. The Balch's
MY EYES ARE FULL OF TEARS THIS MORNING . FIRST, I DISCOVERED THE FUNERAL WAS NOT TODAY AS I HAD THOUGHT, SECOND AS I READ THROUGH THE OTHER MESSAGES AND THE LAST ONE WRITTEN BY MARGIE JUST FINISHED ME OFF.
ANNABETH STARTED COMING TO OUR THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY, CALLED WOMEN AT THE WELL A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO. SHE WAS SUCH A DELIGHT TO ME AND THE GROUP. FOR ME, SHE SET SUCH AN EXAMPLE. WE SHARED SEVERAL MEDICAL ISSUES. THE FACT THAT HER SIGHT WAS SO LIMITED AND HER WILLINGNESS TO BE APART OF THE GROUP WAS SUCH AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO ME. SHE SET A STANDARD IN ME TO NEVER GIVE UP, AND EVEN THOUGH YOU MAY LOSE YOUR SIGHT YOU DON'T HAVE TO LOSE YOUR FOCUS.
I am sorry for your loss but celebrating the eternal life your precious mother now has in heaven!
With our deepest sympathies.
My thought and prayers are with your family. God be with you and keep you.
Joanna Terhune
MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU WITH THE LOSS OF YOUR MOTHER. I HAVE FOND MEMORIES OF HER AND YOUR FAMILY GROWING UP. MAY JESUS COMFORT YOU.
WITH LOVE,
YOUR COUSIN,
SUSANNE
Betsy, I don't know how much you know about my relationship with your mom. You know we were friends, but I also want you to know that she really mentored me during a critical time in my life. She would not have called it that, though. She would call me on at least once a week, ask me how she could pray for me, and talk me through some difficulties. I was without a church home, my marriage was struggling and I was lonely. I think the Lord put her in my life for that time to keep me pointed toward the Lord and His Word. God sent her to me during a very important time in my life and she never failed to call and to remind me of God's goodness. I love her dearly and will forever give thanks to the Lord for her influence in my life. She will always hold a very unique and special place in my heart because she was a special part of God's story in my life. I love you and Margie. I'm praying for you guys.
Dear Margie and Betsy,
Anna Beth was certainly a jewel and we know she is shining even brighter now. I am so sorry for the big hole she leaves in your lives. I always thought it was very precious the relationship that you both had with your mom. You were blessed.
Love you both,
Kelly
I'm praying for your family. What a joy to know she is now in Heaven with our Lord. What a comfort to know that her journey never really ends.
Blessings,
Leah and Damon
Pat, Margie, and Betsy,
I'm so sad to hear about the loss of your mother. She was truly a lovely person and I will always remember her fondly.
Lynnette
Scott, Margie, Joshua and Noah,
We know your loss hurts deeply. May God surround you with His loving arms as you think on so many precious memories.
Just to tell you how very much we will miss Annabeth.
Both she and Pat were very speical to us and to our fellowship group. We are happy to know that she and Pat are together again and sharing so very much together. Thank you Margie and Scott for bringing Annabeth to North Little Rock so we could have her as part of our group. God bless each of you!! Len and Diane,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your familiy during this great loss. The tribute video is beautiful. She was surely loved, and will be missed greatly. My God's love fill your hearts and the comfort of the Holy Spirit send you peace.
Sorry to here about your mother. I still have memories of her making cookies for all of us when we were kids.
I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Betsy & Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We always enjoyed seeing and visiting with your mom when she would visit. I could always tell how proud she was of her family. I will never forget how proud she was when she saw our team perform at state OM a couple of years ago! I also enjoyed when your parents visited our Sunday school class. I know you will miss her so much, but thank God for the peace you have in knowing exactly where she is right now...in the presence of the Lord! We will be lifting you all up in prayer.
All our love,
David, Carla, Jacob & Jadyn Engel
Margie, Pat and Betsy ~
I am so sorry to hear of your Mother's passing. I know that there will be a big hole in your lives and your hearts. She is once again whole and well and enjoying the reunion with your Dad.
Your families will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Margie, Betsy and Patter- I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. May you find peace and comfort in knowing that she is with the Lord.
Just letting you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Margie & Scott,
We are sorry to hear about Annabeth. We would be at the funeral if it weren't for scheduling conflicts. You all will be in our thoughts & prayers!
Our Love,
Susie & Dale
We're sorry for your loss, but rejoice in her new life with the Lord. Our best regards and wishes for the family.
Margie & family, our thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this very difficult time.
Margie - I am so sorry for your loss - but I am sure you know that the loss here is 'HEAVEN'S GAIN' & that reunion day - oh -- that coming day it will be such a GLORIOUS REUNION TIME for all who BELIEVE & TRUST. You Scott and the boys will remain in my prayers for you to be given COMFORT and Peace during this time of sorrow.
You have our sympathy and prayers at this time.
God Bless You All.
Love,
Janell & Dave
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I remember how much fun we had at your house in high school. Both of your parents were wonderful people. I have very fond memories of those times.
Cling to God and his grace will see you through this difficult time.
Love-Michelle
Patrick, Margie and Betsy,
We were so very sorry to learn of sweet AnnaBeth'sdeath. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of great loss. Annabeth was such a beautiful lady...truly a role model for us slightly younger girls who loved her so much. We had some wonderful times with her and Pat through the years...trips to Branson, CBF hometeam meetings, birthday celebrations, eating out, etc. We have all laughed a lot and cried a lot together. We celebrate her going home to Jesus (and to Pat) with all of you, but like you, we will also miss her dearly, as we still miss Pat. We were truly the blessed ones...to have known and loved them both.
Remembering you in love,
James and Twylia
My life was blessed by sweet Annabeth, the very best mother-in-law you could ever ever imagine. She had a kind and gentle spirit and a good sense of humor. Most of all for me she was a good listener and always encouraged me and prayed for me and Patrick. Her faith was steadfast. Not many days went by without a phone call to check on us and make sure we were "all right". She'd always start with the question "is everything ok?" I miss her and those phone calls terribly. But, Patrick and I know that she's happier now without the physical limitations and of course she's back with her love, Pat. Annabeth, I love you.
Margie and Pat
Once again we have come to this moment in our lives where we can all rejoice in the Father's wisdom. We know not the hour or the day when it is time. All we know is that he makes no mistakes. God Bless you and your families. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this time. "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2
Dearest Margie, Pat and Betsy...
I remember as a teen always feeling welcomed in your home by your precious mom; she was open, generous and loving. I remember her laughter. My prayers are with all of you during this very sad season.
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
We loved Annabeth. . . her humor, wit, and love of the Lord. Our prayers are with you. Mourning will endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning.
Jim and Ann
What a lovely tribute to your mom! The words you chose and the life she lived bring glory to our King whom she loved.
Here's to a "life well spent", Big Sister. After 55 yrs. you still are, and I will hold you in my heart forever. Christ's Peace, Annie.
I give God all the Honor and Glory for his love and many Blessings that he has given me. The Lord placed a wonderful God loving family into my life alittle over two years ago. I had the honor of taking care of two precious people, Pat and Annabeth. They hold a special place in my heart forever and oh how I will miss them.
My Tuesdays will never be the same without my Annabeth. She was such a giving person and she showed so much love, compassion and concern for me. I knew that if I ever needed someone to pray for me or just talk to that I could always call on Annabeth. She was always there for me. I always told her that she was a God send and she was. God always knows just what we need and when we need it. He gave me Annabeth and I will forever thank my Lord and Saviour for my precious friend that I loved with all my heart. I look forward to the day that I will see you in Heaven.
I LOVE YOU SO MUCH, Annabeth
Your friend in Christ, Jane
My prayers go out to each one of you in the family.
WE ONLY KNEW PAT AND ANNABETH FOR THE LAST FEW YEARS AT CORNORSTONE BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH IN SHERWOOD. WHAT A WONDERFUL COUPLE THEY WERE AND THEY TRULY WERE GOD'S CHILDREN. ANNABETH WILL BE MISSED BY US, HER CHURCH FAMILY, BUT SHE IS NOW AT PEACE WITH PAT AND THE LORD'S FAMILY. MAY THE FATHER IN HEAVEN BLESS AND KEEP YOU IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW AND COMFORT YOU IN ALL YOUR NEEDS. BENO AND SUE DUKE.
I hope you can find some comfort in your many special memories of your Mom and Dad.
My precious Mom.....you are such a beautiful woman inside and out. You've been gone less than 36 hours and it feels like the world has turned upside down. So many things I would like to say to you, things I've said before and would love to say again, and things I wish I had said. You are a JEWEL!!!! We all adored you and you were the best friend anybody could ask for. You had an amazing group of friends who will miss you for the rest of their lives. We all are so thankful that you can SEE now!!!!!! You can see Jesus, PaPaw, MaMaw and so many others. You can hold hands with Daddy again. I know that Jesus, the Great Physician has you in His hands and that He will share these things with you. I love you Mom......I love you so much and my heart will forever have a hole now that you are missing from my life. Please God......tell my Mom just how much I love her and even though she will never be sad or lonely again, I need her to know how much she meant to us and how thankful we are that she was our Mom! Thank you Lord for giving her sight, balance, and peace!