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IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Rita Annette
Mayes
April 2, 1953 – June 9, 2025
Annette Mayes passed away peacefully on Monday June 9th, surrounded by her children, Jeff, Wendy, and Christie. She was 72 years old.
Born on April 2, 1953, to Lane and Oreda Baker, Annette was raised in the close-knit community of Eva, Alabama. She attended Eva High School, where her strong spirit and warm heart began to shine. At just 16, she married the love of her life, Rex Mayes, and soon after became a devoted mother to three children.
In 1977, the young family settled on Katherine Avenue in northwest Huntsville, where they would spend decades building a loving home and becoming active, cherished members of the neighborhood. In those early years, Annette was the driving force in the family's spiritual journey, often forcing the whole family to church on Sunday mornings. In 1994, Annette and Rex joined Oak Park Baptist Church, forming deep and lasting friendships that continued throughout their lives.
Annette was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rex Mayes, and her parents. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Jeff and Lynn Mayes, Wendy and Jay Crabtree, and Christie and Justin Caldwell; her siblings Brenda (Rafael) Sutinen and Danny (Michelle) Baker; her grandchildren Zach and Hannah Crabtree, Bailey (Chuck) Gehrdes, Logan and Jackson Mayes, Carter and Kayla Caldwell; her great-grandchildren Karina Crabtree, Rowyn Anderson, and Tripp Gehrdes; and many precious nieces and nephews.
A devoted mother, Annette made sure her children grew up surrounded by love, faith, and strong values. Her gentle nature, fun-loving spirit, and selfless heart left an imprint on everyone she met. She found immense joy in being "Nana" to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, dedicating herself fully to their lives and happiness.
Annette also treasured time spent with her extended family, especially her aunts and cousins, often gathering around the kitchen table to share stories, sew, prepare garden vegetables, or catch up on family news. Her warmth, compassion, and love for others were constants in every chapter of her life.
Annette's legacy is one of faith, family, and unconditional love. She will be missed dearly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 12th, from 12:00-2:00 P.M., with a funeral service immediately following at Berryhill Funeral Home. Burial will take place at Valhalla Memory Gardens.
Visitation
Berryhill Funeral Home
12:00 - 2:00 pm
Funeral Service
Berryhill Funeral Home Chapel
Starts at 2:00 pm
Visits: 0
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