Louie Mann

(Garrett) Mann. Growing up in rural Oklahoma as the son of an educator, life was centered around school activities and being active in the community. He learned the country work ethic by helping when it came to cotton picking, pumpkin harvest and watermelon grading. While at Jones High School, he started running track and excelled. He continued his track career at Oklahoma State University and after graduation in 1962, Henry “Hank” Iba recognized Louie’s hard work, care for others and ability to lead. He asked Louie to remain at OSU and assist in the athletic department. There, he met and befriended Dave Smith. When Dave made the move to SMU, he and Louie were a “package deal”. Louie assumed the Assistant Athletic Director role and served from 1971-1981. In 1981, W.A. Criswell, pastor of the First Baptist Church, Dallas asked Louie to join the staff. He became director of security and housekeeping. Louie understood that love and service to others were the heartbeat of First Baptist and he quickly adapted to love and serve where he was needed, regardless of roles. When he saw a need, he jumped in and coordinated the resources to get the job done. Because of Jane’s involvement with The Chapel Choir and his love for working with the youth, they served by being tour sponsors and youth camp sponsors for many years where they impacted lives. He always said that he was here to “Sweep the Floor and Drive the Bus”. One area that was in need of attention was serving families by coordinating with funeral homes and ensuring the church facilities were ready at a moment’s notice. Louie loved the opportunity to be a resource for each new pastor, but especially their families. He knew the “behind the scenes” work was just as important. We asked OS and Susie what scripture came to mind, and immediately they responded, “Your love has given me much

joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people” Philemon 1:7 NLT. When Charlie Bristow knew that he was retiring, he reached out to Louie to pass the responsibility of caring for the Pastor and Mrs. “C” along. Oh...the stories we could tell! A sweet friendship was forged between The Criswell’s and the Mann Family that lasted a lifetime. Mrs. Criswell would often joke with Louie and tell him “You are going to miss me when I’m gone” and he did, until last Saturday.

After leaving the staff at First Baptist, he was approached by the Horner family to come serve on the staff at Premier Designs, Inc. Louie had a great time serving in many roles in their company. Caring for Joan and Andy, serving the Premier Family, working at the Home Office and engaging in their culture of “Serving Others” was the perfect fit. Mr. Horner knew of Louie’s special friendship with Mrs. Criswell, and his one requirement of Louie was “If she calls, you go”. He loved serving at Premier until retirement. Well, he didn't’ stay retired long. Louie quickly returned to his roots of education and guiding youth at STEM academy in Lewisville. Stephanie Mason Scott asked Louie to come be the “Concierge” at the high school where he ran study halls, corralled kids and lead by example on how to treat ladies, how to dress appropriately and most of all, be respectful to others. Teachers, staff and students Loved “Mr. Mann”.