Birmingham, AL, October 14, 2025
News Summary
Ann Brooks McAllister Mitchell, a beloved educator and community leader, passed away at the age of 89. Known for her Christian faith and kindness, she touched many lives through her dedication to education and community service. Born in Alabama, she achieved academic excellence and held significant positions in education, including Dean of Students. Ann was also a business owner and an active church member. Her legacy continues through her children and grandchildren, along with her cherished friendships and community contributions. Memorial services will be held in Birmingham, AL.
Birmingham, AL – Ann Brooks McAllister Mitchell, a cherished educator and community leader, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, at the age of 89. Known for her unwavering Christian faith and genuine kindness, she left an indelible mark on countless lives throughout her career in education and community service.
Born on April 14, 1936, in Fairfield, Alabama, to J.C. Brooks and Annie Bullock Brooks, Ann graduated from Fairfield High School in 1954. She continued her education at Auburn University, where she met her first husband, Bob McAllister, at the Baptist Student Union. The couple married in September 1956, and welcomed two children together, Darrell Britton in 1957 and Leslie Mara in 1960. Sadly, Bob McAllister passed away in 1961 after a battle with cancer.
Undeterred, Ann completed her Bachelor of Science degree at Samford University in 1964, followed by a Master of Arts degree from the University of Alabama in 1967. Her career in education began when she was appointed Assistant Dean of Students at Mississippi State College for Women in 1967, a role she advanced to become the Dean of Students and an Associate Professor of Education by 1968.
Ann took a Leave of Absence to pursue her Ph.D. in Educational Administration, which she earned from the University of Alabama in 1973. She juggled her academic ambitions while raising her two children, earning the affectionate nickname “Dean Mac” during her time at The W and contributing significantly to the Columbus community and First Baptist Church.
Her life took another turn in 1977 when she met John H. Mitchell, Jr. at a banking conference. They married in April 1977 and Ann resigned from The W a year later, relocating to Starkville. There, she thrived as the owner of TravelFirst in the travel industry while engaging in leadership roles at Starkville First United Methodist Church. Ann also established the Travel Department for Fortis Productions.
Throughout her life, Ann was preceded in death by both of her husbands, her parents, her brother Dennis M. Brooks, and her stepson Cole Mitchell. She is survived by her children: Darrell Britton McAllister of St. Petersburg, FL; Leslie McAllister Terrell of Atlanta, GA; and Miller Mitchell Ferrie of Leith, ND. Ann also leaves behind six grandchildren: Alison McAllister Wallin, Haley McAllister Anderson, Britton Schirra Barton, Christian Terrell, Ethan Terrell, and Daniel Ferrie, along with twelve great-grandchildren. Additionally, she is survived by her lifelong best friend and sister Sue Hassell Parker of Ooltewah, TN, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family expressed their gratitude to the staff and caregivers at Belmont Village Buckhead in Atlanta for their loving support during Ann’s final days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Cancer Society, or a charity of choice.
Memorial services for Ann Brooks McAllister Mitchell will be held on October 15, 2025, at Johns-Ridout’s Mortuary-Elmwood Chapel and Cemetery in Birmingham, AL. The visitation will commence from 12:30 to 2:00 PM, followed by a chapel service at 2:00 PM, and a graveside service immediately after.
FAQs
- What is the date of Ann Brooks McAllister Mitchell’s passing? Ann Brooks McAllister Mitchell entered the Gates of Heaven on October 9, 2025, at the age of 89.
- When was Ann born? Ann was born on April 14, 1936, in Fairfield, AL.
- Who did Ann marry? Ann married Bob McAllister in September 1956 and later John H. Mitchell, Jr. in April 1977.
- What was Ann’s educational background? Ann graduated from Fairfield High School in 1954, completed her B.S. degree at Samford University in 1964, and earned her M.A. degree in 1967 from the University of Alabama.
- What are the details of Ann’s memorial service? Memorial services will be held on October 15, 2025, at Johns-Ridout’s Mortuary-Elmwood Chapel and Cemetery in Birmingham, AL, with visitation from 12:30 to 2:00 PM, followed by a chapel service at 2:00 PM.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 14, 1936 |
| Date of Passing | October 9, 2025 |
| Age at Passing | 89 |
| Education | B.S. from Samford University, M.A. from the University of Alabama |
| Notable Positions | Dean of Students at The W (Mississippi University for Women) |
| Family | Children: Darrell Britton McAllister, Leslie McAllister Terrell; Grandchildren: 6; Great-grandchildren: 12 |
| Memorial Service | October 15, 2025, at Johns-Ridout’s Mortuary-Elmwood Chapel and Cemetery, Birmingham, AL |
| In Lieu of Flowers | Donations to Alzheimer’s Association, American Cancer Society or charity of choice |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Starkville High School Class of 2025 Achievements
Remembering Russell Dale Mitchell: A Life Well Lived
Additional Resources
- Alabama Obituaries: Ann Mitchell
- Legacy: Jo Mitchell
- Penwell-Gabel: Kimberly Mitchell
- Clark Funeral Homes: Barbara Mitchell
- Lock Haven: Ann L. Mitchell
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
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