The beautiful Annie Degraffinried was born on April 17, 1950, in Macon, Mississippi. She entered eternal peace on July 12, 2024, surrounded by family. Annie confessed her faith in God at an early age and expressed that faith consistently over the years. She joined Zion Chapel Missionary Baptist Church on March 10, 2002.

Affectionately known as “Sista Cat” to many, Annie was a dynamic soul that never met a stranger. An outgoing and fun-loving woman, she had a knack for turning the common bond she found with just about anyone into a unique connection. Annie was a straight shooter who loved deeply and made sure no one went unseen or unheard. She particularly loved engaging with family and friends at the annual Maconite Ball and class reunions and made time to build community with her neighbors. Annie’s words provided peace and empowerment, comfort and reassurance. She wasn’t your average social butterfly; she was an angel sent from God.

In her earlier years, Annie attended B.F. Liddell High School, where she not only led her class as valedictorian but also led her basketball team to win a state title. After graduating high school, Annie married Edward “Lent” Degraffinried, her loving husband for the next 54 years. Soon after they married, Annie and Edward moved to Detroit, Michigan, where they began a family and remained until they moved to Cleveland, Ohio in 1981. While raising their five girls, Annie pursued an education in accounting. Years later, she used these skills partnering with her husband to operate a successful tax preparation business, Accurate Tax Service. She was a confidante, mentor, and all-around pillar for those who needed it.

Annie’s engaging presence could command any room. From yelling at the refs at her daughters’ and grandchildren’s games, to debating sports with her sons-in-law and playing spades and bid whist, she shined wherever she went. She had an eye for beauty and loved planting gorgeous flowers and shopping for her family. She was always a giver and was never too busy to talk to anyone in need. She lived by this: “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.” —Matthew 6:3-4

Annie is survived by her husband Edward, five daughters, Shashelia, Saunjula (Tarrence), Valisha (Aaron), Shalonda, and Natalie; and her six grandchildren, Tasaun, Amaya, Wisdom, Serene, James-Paul, and Jamisyn. She is further survived by countless cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, neighbors, and clients who loved her dearly.

Annie was preceded in death by her parents, Maggie Mae & Harris B. Grant, and by her brother, J.C. “Bopete” Nicholson (Jackie).