Annie Mae (Garrison) Cole, known lovingly as "Granny Annie," passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025, at The Oaks Assisted Living in Carrollton, Georgia. Born on May 27, 1926, to Nettie Helms Garrison and Warren Daniel Garrison, Annie's 98 years were marked by resilience, love, and an unwavering faith in God.

Annie grew up alongside her brothers, James Lewis Garrison and William Joseph Garrison, carrying in her heart the memory of two siblings who left too soon - a stillborn brother and her baby sister, Mildred Grace. These early experiences with loss shaped her into a woman who cherished every moment with her loved ones, often sharing her wisdom through heartwarming stories filled with humor and grace.

Her journey as a mother began with her marriage to Earl Brannon, with whom she had Linda Ann Brannon Peters and Thomas Earl Brannon. Her family grew further through her marriage to Felix Vandiver Cole, welcoming Lurlie Cole Jennings, John Felix Cole, and David Vandiver Cole to their loving home. Annie's strength was tested by profound losses - her beloved son David Vandiver Cole, who was taken by a drunk driver in 1969; her son Thomas Earl Brannon, who succumbed to malignant melanoma in 2009; and the more recent losses of her daughter Lurlie Cole Jennings and son John Felix Cole. Through these heartaches, she found solace in her deep faith and continued to bring joy to others with her infectious laugh and remarkable ability to find humor in life's everyday moments.

Known for her delightful storytelling, Annie could transform any family gathering into an occasion of laughter and joy, weaving tales that would be remembered and retold for generations. Her faith in God was the cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength through life's challenges and filling her heart with gratitude for its blessings.

Annie is preceded in death by her parents, brothers James Lewis Garrison and William Joseph Garrison, and her beloved children David Vandiver Cole, Thomas Earl Brannon, Lurlie Cole Jennings, and John Felix Cole. She is survived by her daughter, Linda Ann Brannon Peters, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will carry her memory forward.

Her warm smile, gentle spirit, storytelling gift, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed by all who knew her. In accordance with her wishes, cremation services will be held. Granny Annie's life reminds us that family is life's greatest blessing, that laughter is good medicine for the soul, and that faith can light the way through life's darkest moments.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Messages of condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.almonfuneralhome.com

Almon Funeral Home of Carrollton has charge of arrangements.