Ms. Annie K. Hairston

Ms. Hairston taught both of my children, and I had the privilege of working with her for several years at Ridgeway Elementary. She was a true professional. I saw her occasionally after we both retired, and it was always such a pleasure. Helen Plybon

I am offering my sincere condolences to Gloria Johnson and the entire family. I had the opportunity on many occasions to talk with Ms. Hairston. She came to some of the NSBE board meetings and had a great interest in the education and well being of students. Whenever I would see her out she would ask about my daughter, Breona and how she was doing. Her words would be, "if she need any help or anything tell her to get in touch with me." She will be greatly missed. Regina Warren

Sincere condolences! We loved Annie! Norma Jean Hairston-Parker

God's whisper of comfort quiets the noise of our trials. Condolences to the family of Annie Hairston.--Gretta, Anthony, and Kevin Broadnax

To Gloria Johnson and your family....My Prayers go out to you in the loss of your Aunt Annie. She was always very kind to me whenever I had a chance to be with the family. God will continue to wrap his arms around you as you go through this trying time. If there is anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to let me know. Love You! Trish Hairston

My memories of Anne date back to our childhood in Chestnut Knob. We played jacks and softball together, sat next to each other at Mount Zion Baptist Church, and were in the same class at Richard Clarke Elementary School. Although my family moved from the area when I was in middle school, our friendship never wavered. At Virginia Union University our relationship continued to flourish. We shared our love for the Panthers Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and a fervent desire to teach. In spite of the distance between us through the years, our friendship withheld the test of time. She was funny, candid, and loyal . Her precious smile will be forever engraved in my heart.

Annie Kate will really be missed by me. She was so supportive of the Alliance for Excellence and all of the Alliance for Excellence activities at Patrick Henry Community College. She attended all of them. I will miss talking to her at our weekly Wednesday shopping days (for senior citizens discount at Roses)Rest in peace. Jean Wilson, Coordinator, Alliance for Excellence, Patrick Henry Community College

My fondest memories of and was my My fondest memory of Ann was seeing her flying around those Chestnut Knob curves in that little yellow Volkswagen or her Corvette. Kittie, Peggy, Ruby Jean and I would cram into that Volkswagen to get to school sports activities, parties and other events. She was always there for us when we needed a ride and asked her to take us places. Her laconic speech and sharp wit is what set her apart from others and made her the strong independent woman we admired. She was a staunch advocate for education and a great role model for the adolescents in our family. I will miss her vociferous debates during our family reunions and that smile that was contagious and always present. Love you cousin, Brinda

My prayers and sympathy are with the Hairston family. I enjoyed working with Annie Kate at the Fayette Area Historical. May she rest in peace. God Bless and love you I am Johnsie P. FinneyF

My condolences go out to the family. Anne will be greatly missed...she always had an encouraging word. - Tina Mitchell

Miss Annie K will b missed my prayers are with the family.She cared about everybodys child.She had that kind and giving heart.Thanks for being you Rest peacefully my friend. Kathy & Kristel Hairston

Miss Hairston was my fourth grade English Teacher. In addition, she taught my sister and brother as well. No matter what, she always had a smile on her face. If she had something to say, she would just say it. She didn't care if you got mad or not. A great teacher, leader, and a great advocate for the black community. She will be sorely missed, but will live forever in our hearts.

Always in my heart as a teacher who cared. Amy Reynolds-Hatfield

I extend my deepest sympathies and prayers. Annie K. was a dear sister in Christ. She attended the noonday women’s bible study at Grace Presbyterian Church where I was the pastor until recently. I loved her kind and giving heart and her strong profession of her faith in Jesus Christ. We laughed together as we shared stories over meals and I could always count on her support. I also appreciated her love, passion and support for children. She will be greatly missed. I am so grateful to have had the honor of knowing her and feeling her love. Pastor Jane B. Johnson, former pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church

Mrs Hairston was my fifth grade Science teacher. She was always very poised and I am grateful to our Lord for allowing her to touch my life and so many other children’s too. Praying for you Melissa and family. Tiffany Haneline Stovall

I used to call Annie K. “Miss AKA.” You very often saw her wearing our colors of pink and green. She was a sorority member who said what she meant and meant what she said. When I was still teaching and Annie K. was substituting, she not only subbed for me but was often called for by my coworkers. Everyone wanted Annie K. to sub. Not only could she keep the kids in line, but she checked your papers! I will truly miss her! Carolyn S. Rinaldi Kappa Delta Omega Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Ms Hairston will be missed by many. She was stern but she was one of the few teachers that cared about our education. R.I.P

-Sheretta Chapman, Campbell Court elementary 5th grade student 1995