of Little Rock, AR
June 17, 1971 - August 19, 2023
Ann Marie Strebe May, 52, of Little Rock passed away on August 19, 2023. She was born June 17, 1971 in Waupaca, Wisconsin to James and Margo Dushek Strebe. In 1973, her family moved to Cherokee Village, Arkansas and she graduated from Highland High School in 1989. Following graduation, Ann studied engineering at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.
Throughout her career, Ann worked in telecom network engineering for Alltel, Verizon Wireless, Allied Telecom and AT&T Wireless. In 2019 she made a career change, followed her passion and opened a small local business to restore vintage and antique furniture, Pieces of Time South. One of her favorite things about her new business was that it gave her the opportunity to work with her father, Jim, a retired carpenter. Ann was currently in the process of launching a new animal rescue in Little Rock with friends who are as committed to rescuing animals as she was.
Ann was a sweet and compassionate soul who never met a stranger. A good friend to all, she had a knack for befriending people when they needed a friend the most. Being Ann's friend meant knowing you were always in a judgement free zone. She loved everyone for who they were and she would never want you to change for her. Ann married her soul mate and best friend, Jeff May, who stood by her side in sickness and in health. Jeff blessed Ann with the role of bonus mom to his beautiful daughter, Sydney, whom she loved dearly. Growing up, she always loved to cook with her mother, Margo and was the self-proclaimed "best cook" of the sisters. Stacey and Kari gladly allowed her to hold this title as long as she did the lion's share of cooking for family gatherings and holiday meals. Auntie Ann, as she was affectionately known by her nieces, was notorious for being the one who would say yes when their parents said no. She loved her nieces like daughters.
Ann was the grateful recipient of a liver transplant and was passionate about organ donation. She had the unique opportunity to experience organ donation first-hand and it became her mission to increase awareness and encourage everyone she knew to sign up to be a donor. Receiving her liver transplant was life changing and she was grateful every day that her donor's family made the decision to donate which provided her with a greatly improved quality of life after the procedure.
Ann was preceded in death by her grandparents, Leona Kutz Dushek, Lillian and Elmer Dushek (Grandpa Duke and Grandma Bunny) and Alma and Robert Strebe (Grammie and Grandpa Strebe). She is survived by her parents, James and Margo Strebe; husband, Jeff and step-daughter, Sydney May and her beloved cat, Sassy; sisters, Stacey Strebe Otwell (Greg) and Kari Strebe Phillips (Paul); nieces, Alex and Caroline Otwell, McKenzie Phillips Marshall (Garrison), Kennedy and Hallie Phillips and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
A celebration of Ann's life will be held at St. James United Methodist Church on Thursday, August 24th at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to ARORA, 1300 Wilson Rd, Little Rock, AR 72205, St. James United Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Dr, Little Rock, AR 72212 or the animal rescue organization of your choice.
The Livestream is at: https://www.stjameslr.org/
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32 Condolence(s)
Dan Greven and Praphula Patel
Monday, September 18, 2023
We were shocked and very saddened the day we learned from Jeff that Ann had passed away. Ann has been in our thoughts every day since then, and we are praying that all of her family may find strength and comfort in the knowledge that the love which Ann spread all around her, to all living creatures, has made and still makes this world a better place. We are fortunate to have met and talked to Ann, Jeff and her Dad several times during the course of a few furniture restoration projects, and Ann's kindness, generosity, positive energy and spirit will always be in our memories. Our condolences to the whole family.
William Sinclair Wiley
Thursday, August 31, 2023
Mrs Ann from the time I met her working at Kroger was so kind willing to go the extra mile to help someone. She during the time we interacted showed me that kindness abs compassion are great tools to aid in life success. Even when I moved she attempted to reach out to help if it was needed. In closing she still was doing her usual heroics in west lr when I return years later with a glowing personality. Rip Mrs Ann I am sad we didn’t get that last morning talk like folders in the morning.
Edward K Allis
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
My wife and I became friends with Ann over the last year. We had two connections. She did some furniture restoration for us and I was also the recipient of a liver transplant. We talked at length about our experiences at UAMS. Through Ann we also got to know her father Jim. Jim and I shared a lot of stories about the Packers of the late 1960s. When I was able to name the starting lineups of the Packers from that era Jim was so happy to find a kindred spirit.
I can't believe we missed the obituary and the service at St James. Our sincere condolences to Jeff, Sydney and Jim and his wife. What a great lady. Rest in peace.
Ralph Hall Jr
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
and a very kind James and Margo and family it breaks my heart to hear the passing of Ann she was a dear friend and very kind person she will differently be missed by all .
Anita Wilkerson
Thursday, August 24, 2023
Ann was a beautiful, loyal, understanding, patient, and forgiving person. A friend to everyone actually better than a friend. She will be missed. My condolences and prayers.
Alex Ryu
Thursday, August 24, 2023
I'm so sorry to hear this. My big sympathy with you and your family.
MK Hardin (Brogdon)
Thursday, August 24, 2023
Ann was my favorite of all of David’s friends. I wanted to be just like her. She rocked short hair, was so athletic, incredibly beautiful, full of spunk, amazingly funny, extremely smart, but most of all was the most authentic person I may have ever known. Even as the pesky little sister, Ann made time for me. Her obituary is a beautiful tribute and a written picture of all that I remember Ann to be. May you know you are all so loved. I know you will always keep Ann’s legacy alive. I will always remember her and strive to be like her. Much love to and many prayers for you all.
Todd Turner (Tony Winfrey)
Thursday, August 24, 2023
Ann has been a friend since we began school in kindergarten. She always brought joy into the room wherever she was. Ann was always willing to help anyone when she could. During school Ann always helped me type my assignments or proof my writing and never would take anything in return.
During our adulthood Ann kept in touch through social media. I could always talk and confide in her about anything. One time she even offered to come stay with me when Tony was in the hospital. Again she always thought of others before herself.
My prayers and heart go out to all the family and friends that loved Ann. She will be missed. What a wonderful reunion we will have later in our eternal home in Heaven.
MK Hardin (Brogdon)
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
Ann was my favorite of all of David’s friends. I wanted to be just like her. She rocked short hair, was so athletic, incredibly beautiful, full of spunk, amazingly funny, extremely smart, but most of all was the most authentic person I may have ever known. Even as the pesky little sister, Ann made time for me. Her obituary is a beautiful tribute and a written picture of all that I remember Ann to be. May you know you are all so loved. I know you will always keep Ann’s legacy alive. I will always remember her and strive to be like her. Much love to and many prayers for you all.
Kevin Coleman
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
Ann was one of a kind. A great boss, a great coworker, and someone who made the lives of others around her better and more joyous. Above all she was an extraordinary friend and person.
Carol Hall- Wiles
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
There are no words of condolence to truly comfort a parent whose child,s life journey has ended. I loved Annie. Margo, Jim may God hold you close. I love you all and have many memories that I cherish. When we all get to heaven what a glorious reunion we will have. If you need me for anything, Margo, just call.
Bill Ratcliff
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
This time last week I was delivering kittens to Ann to be placed in the care of the newly formed pet rescue, Lucky Day. I had just met her, but already it seemed I'd always known her. Her countenance was so loving and warm, and she answered all my concerns about the rescue and the safety of the kittens patiently and with confidence. We were obviously kindred spirits in the love of all animals, especially the homeless and abandoned. I was sick and shocked upon learning of her untimely death, as though I had lost a forever friend. May God hold Jeff and their daughter up as they travel this dark road. I feel certain Ann is enjoying the fruit of her labor under the caring wing of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Carla Haugen
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
Ann you were an amazing lady and so full of life and energy. Sharing a love for rescuing kitties was a quick soul connection.
"As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now a part of us, as we remember them." – Elie Wiesel
May memories of love and laughter carry your family and friends through the sorrow.
Joe Auck
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
Ann was a incredible coworker and greater friend to me over all the years, she will be missed tremendously. God has another great angel by his side and Ann has been made whole again without any pain from this world. My prayers go out to Jeff and the family as they navigate through this hard spot in life, may God place his hand on each of you providing you comfort and peace like only He can.
James and Mary Grant
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
Our deepest sympathies in the loss of Ann.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Love from Jim and Mary Grant
Brenda Whitbey Bunker
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
My thoughts and prayers are with you Jeff and your entire family.
Rick Barrett
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
We've lost a very special person. She will be missed by many.
Dianna lewis
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
Prayers for her familyâ¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸ðŸ™ðŸ»
William Wyatt
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Our time working together at Alltel Ann was of my favorite times, you were always the best at everything you did and you learned how to deal with the unknown quickly. Bless you my dear friend, may we meet again above.
Dee Carter
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
My words cannot express how heartbroken I am for the loss of Ann. My love and prayers are with you all
Judy Graham
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
My thoughts and prayers are with you Jeff and all of Ann's family. So sorry to hear this
Marla Carpenter Phipps
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Continued prayers for the Strebe -May family today and the days to follow.
Connie soward(wells)
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
I was saddened by Ann's passing ,
Haven't seen her since school ,but you couldn't ask for more friendly sister then Ann,Karrie,and Stacy.
Prayers for her family .
Chance Lemons
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
With all my heart I am truly saddened by this news she was an amazing person with a great sense of humor.
I will keep all of the family in my prayers. There are no words to express how much this hurts.
sandi cormican Mabry
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Jim, Margo and family,
I am so sad to hear about Ann's passing. I know how hard it is to lose a child and want u to know that all the memories u have will someday replace some of the sadness. Take care and God bless u all.
Sandi Cormican Mabry
Mary Beth DiPierro
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Ann and I became fast friends when we worked together at ALLTEL/ ALLTEL Wireless. Our jobs were interrelated so even though she was in Little Rock and I was in Matthews NC , we had daily interface and I grew to love her in every way. She started out being my coworker and then a great friend. I loved her spunky ways and admired her confidence and ability to handle any situation. I remember when she started to date Jeff and how she knew he was the ONE. We shared our personal and work life with each other and laughed and cried through it all. She was a one of a kind friend who in my world can never be replaced. Send love and prayers to Jeff and her family. Love you Annie, see you when we meet again.
Paula Hunt-Espino
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Thoughts and prayers to all Ann's family and friends.
Amy & Tommy Trivitt
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
We are so saddened by Ann’s passing. I have grown up with these sisters and this precious family and my heart breaks for them all. Love and prayers to Jeff and Sydney and to all of them.
George DeMoya
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
I knew Ann as a coworker. She was a lovely person and was always caring. I am glad that her final years she spent working alongside her father. I was surprised and so saddened to hear of her passing. I will pray for her and her family that they can find comfort in gathering together supporting one another in this time. Psam 34:18 "the Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." May she rest in peace.
Dana and Sherry Phillips
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Thinking of you and your Family at this time. So sorry to hear about Ann.
Dennis R. Roofe, Jr.
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
Ann will be surely missed by all that got the opportunity to meet her and even more by those who got to know her. Her family will be in our prayers for comfort and support during these days of morning. Ann leaves many fond memories for all, and we recall the joy she brought to everyone in these times of sadness.
With the Deepest of Sympathy to her family and friends.
Dee McCool
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
So sorry to hear about Ann. We met her through her business and had sold her a few pieces of furniture. She was such a kind soul. We will lift all of you up in our prayers. ðŸ™ðŸ»