Annie Jewel Wilson

Annie Jewel Wilson was born in Austin, Texas on November 6, 1944 to Maryland White and Cora (Aldridge) White who both preceded her in death. She was the eldest of seven children and was revered as such by her siblings until she departed this life on Wednesday, July 1, 2020.

Leading by example, Annie accepted Christ at an early age and joined Hopewell Primitive Baptist Church in Cedar Creek, Texas. She attended Emile High School in Bastrop, Texas where she was a member of the choir and sang high soprano until her graduation in the Class of 1962. Her thirst for knowledge continued and she began her pursuit of higher education at Huston-Tillotson College in Austin, Texas.

In September 1966, Annie married Andrew Jackson. They were inseparable. To Andrew, she was no mere ordinary woman, she was his “Anne”. This union birthed three beautiful girls, Yolanda, Zana and Patricia. After a time, Annie married E.B. Wilson Jr. and became mother to her adoring step-son, Robert Wilson, whom she seamlessly coddled together with her girls to make a family. She will forever be known for her ability to meet strangers and make them family. That is who she was and how she lived her life.

Annie began her professional journey working at the Pleasant Inn, a historical landmark of East Austin, as a waitress and cook. In 1970, she began her career as Communications Board Operator when AT&T was still Southwestern Bell. She advanced her position to management before retiring with more than 20 years of service. Annie did not believe in stopping. She went on to work with children at Cook Elementary as a substitute teacher after her retirement.

Very active in her church, her community and multiple organizations that were all so blessed by her presence, Annie served with both humility and leadership. She served The Lord for 56 years at Hopewell Primitive Baptist Church. She was on the Matron Auxiliary and was Financial Secretary for the ministry. She attended church conventions on state and national levels. Annie organized church functions and celebrations. She led holiday outreach projects to the elderly and youth. In addition, she used her voice in the choir and as a soloist, always allowing her brightest light to shine.

There was no quit in her. Staying true to her passion for helping our most vulnerable populations, children and elderly persons, she delivered Meals on Wheels and assisted with organizing the annual March of Dimes Walk-a-thon. Last, but certainly not least, she was a political activist and member of the Black Austin Democrats (BAD). As if that was not enough, Annie sold Life insurance with A L Williams, Mary Kay Cosmetics, AmeriPlan discount dental, Melaleuca health products, Tupperware and Jewelry all in her spare time.

Annie was a marvelous cook and seamstress. When her girls were small, she dressed them all alike even though they were not triplets just because she was skilled enough a seamstress to do so. She made a Coconut Bunny cake every Easter and inspired others with her Italian Cream cakes as well as other baked goodies, none as sweet as she.

Annie took road trips with her family every summer because she loved to travel. She liked to see and enjoy places and things at her own pace. It is said that her smile “showed all 32” it was so bright and inviting. We will remember her contributions to our family and to our community. Most of all, we will remember her smiling on the world.

Annie is survived by her children - Yolanda Jones (Reginald) of Mansfield, TX.; Zana Jackson of Austin, TX.; Patricia Nobles (George) of Pflugerville, TX.; and Robert Wilson of Del Valle, TX.; Four Siblings - Donald White (Mary Ann), Elaine Clark and Vivian Mackey(Marvin) all of Austin, TX; and James White of Bastrop, TX.; Three aunts - Lenora Crayton, Hazel Robinson of Austin, TX and Mary Aldridge of Gardena, CA. ; 11 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, a niece, a host of nephews, cousins and friends.