Annie Lillian Rouse

Annie Lillian Rouse, more affectionately known as "Bobby," was born on January 29, 1932. She was the second child of the late Sudie Mae and Oliphant Rocquemore of Griffin, Georgia. Annie valued education from an early age and excelled throughout her high school career at Booker T. Washington in Atlanta, GA (C/O 1949). She began her collegiate journey at Spelman College before transferring to Albany State University, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. She continued her educational pursuits by obtaining her Master's and Specialist degrees from Georgia State University. Annie began her professional career as the Program Director at the Capital Avenue Recreational Center in Atlanta, GA, where she dedicated herself to creating positive community programs for many years. After several years in this role, she sought new opportunities and took on the position of Program Director at the Grady Metro Girls Club. Passionate about supporting youth development, Annie later transitioned to serving as a substitute teacher within the DeKalb County School System until she became certified and devoted over 30 years to education, retiring from her role at Benteen Elementary School, where she made a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues. Annie and Roosevelt's love story began in 1949 at the Atlanta Steel Company's open house, where their paths first crossed and sparked a connection that would last a lifetime. They were married on September 20, 1952, and shared nearly five decades of love, partnership, and cherished memories until Roosevelt’s passing on September 29, 2001. Together, they raised three children—Deborah, LaTanji, and Bobbye—who were the heart of their family and the pride of their lives. Annie devoted her life to Christ at a young age, joining Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, where her father, affectionately known as "Big Daddy," served as a Deacon and her mother “Sudie” served as a Deaconess. Throughout her life, Annie remained a pillar of the church, embodying unwavering faith and service. She was an active member of the Courtesy Guild Board, where she contributed to the church community with grace and dedication, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her. Annie will forever be cherished in the hearts of her daughters, Deborah (James) Parks, LaTanji Burroughs (Rodney), and Bobbye Rouse; her grandchildren, Kimberly Perry, Christopher Perry, Adri Hayes, and Chelsea Rouse-Smith; and her great-grandchildren, Ivy Kirkland and Caleb Kirkland. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roosevelt Rouse. Annie also leaves behind a host of family and friends who will carry her memory with love and gratitude. -- Sincerely, https://vimeo.com/event/5000086

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Annie Lillian Rouse

February 4, 1932 - March 15, 2025