Annie Barnes Braland, 70, of Earlham passed away on Monday, October 28, 2024 at the Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center in Des Moines. Visitation will be from 6-8 P.M. on Thursday, October 31st at the Johnson Family Funeral Home in Earlham. Funeral service will be held at 11 A.M. on Friday, November 1st at the First Presbyterian Church of Earlham. Burial will be held in the Earlham Cemetery. Luncheon will be served at the Bricker-Price Building in Earlham. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Earlham Historical Society. Online condolences may be left at www.johnsonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Annie grew up on a picturesque farm in rural West Des Moines, where her love for the land and horses took root. She graduated from Valley High School in 1972, carrying with her the values of hard work and community service that had been instilled in her from a young age. Her passion for learning and helping others led her to pursue higher education, earning a BA in Sociology from Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, followed by a Master's in Education with an additional 30 hours as a reading specialist from Indiana University in Indianapolis.
For ten years, Annie served as a Chapter I reading teacher with Des Moines Public Schools, where she touched the lives of countless students with her patience, skill, and nurturing spirit. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom as she served on the Board of the Earlham Public Library and taught Bible School at her church, further demonstrating her belief in the transformative power of knowledge and faith.
Annie's involvement in various organizations reflected her diverse interests and her desire to contribute to society. She was a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts, reflecting her belief in the empowerment of young women. In high school as a Senior Girl Scout, she was selected to travel to Mexico as an International Girl Scout. Her dedication to historical preservation and genealogy was evident through her active participation in the Colonial Dames and the Earlham Historical Society. She also held leadership roles in PEO Chapter Q, where she engaged with other women in supporting educational opportunities.
Family was the cornerstone of Annie's life. She was a loving and supportive wife to her husband, Samuel H. Braland, and a mother to her daughters, Dana Braland Wortman (Dr. William E. Wortman, MD) and Kate Auner Braland. Her roles as a grandmother to Zieger W. Wortman and as an aunt to her beloved nieces and nephews was one she embraced with joy and pride. Annie's siblings, Thomas A. Barnes (Vicki) and Susan B. "Susy" Kelley (Bruce), shared in the close-knit bonds of the Barnes family, a legacy of their late parents, Josephine Auner and Walter “Barney” C. Barnes.
Annie's interests and hobbies were as rich and varied as her contributions to her community. A proficient photographer, she captured the beauty of the world around her, preserving memories and moments through her lens. Her skillful hands created intricate needlework, pieces that are cherished by those who received them. Annie was deeply involved in her daughters' activities, volunteering with the Des Moines Children's Choir and nurturing their passions as she had her own.
An avid collector of children's books, Annie believed in the power of stories to inspire and teach. In every quiet corner and bustling room of her home, one could find the treasured tomes of her collection, each one a gateway to another world. And through it all, her love for chocolate was a sweet reminder of her belief in life's simple pleasures.
Annie Barnes Braland lived a life rich in love, learning, and service. Her legacy is carried forward not only in the memories of those who knew her but also in the impact she made on her community. Her spirit, characterized by generosity, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to the growth and well-being of others, will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.
As the sun sets on a life so beautifully lived, we bid farewell to Annie, a beacon of light whose legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of her family, her students, and her community for generations to come.
To send flowers in memory of Annie Barnes Braland, visit the Tribute Store.
31
Oct
140 NW 2nd St
Earlham,, IA 50072
1
Nov
255 E. 1st Street
Earlham, IA 50072
140 NW 2nd
140 NW 2nd
Earlham, IA 50072
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