Marjorie Ann Ator Matthews

Marjorie Ann Ator Matthews, affectionately known as Ann, was welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior, free at last from the struggles of Alzheimer’s, on September 28, 2025. Her family rejoices in knowing she is now whole and at peace, reunited with those she loved so dearly.

Ann was born on January 12, 1930, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Thad and Minnie Ator. She graduated from Brownwood High School in 1947 and later attended Odessa College. On July 6, 1948, she married the love of her life, Fred Matthews. Together, they shared 57 beautiful years of marriage filled with deep devotion, laughter, and unwavering love, until his passing in 2005.

Ann’s heart belonged to her family and her pets. She found joy in the simple beauty of nature and loved nothing more than sharing it with those she held dear. Her kitchen was the heart of many family gatherings, where her famous banana pudding and potato salad became cherished traditions.

For 37 years, Ann faithfully served the Ector County Independent School District, with 32 of those years at Crockett Junior High. She worked in the office as attendance and audio-visual clerk, where she was a beloved fixture. Students and staff alike adored her for her kindness, warm smile, and the genuine care she showed to every child who walked through the doors.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. A long-time member of Second Baptist Church in Odessa, Ann poured her love into her church family. She sang in the choir, joyfully taught Sunday School to 5-year-olds, led Girls in Action (GAs), and participated in Women’s Missionary Union (WMU) and Bible studies. Whether she was sewing curtains and banners or baking cupcakes and hot dogs for church events, Ann served with a cheerful heart and a servant’s spirit.

Ann had a love for sports that ran deep. She was an avid fan of MOJO football, the Dallas Cowboys, and cheered on the San Angelo Bobcats in support of her grandkids. She rarely missed a game, concert, track meet, gymnastics competition, or school program –--if her family was involved, Ann was there, front and center. She also bowled in several leagues and proudly scored multiple games over 200. At 85, she joined Curves and completed over 600 workouts----proof of her adventurous, spirited nature. She loved to travel and always had a suitcase ready for the next journey.

Ann was preceded in death by her beloved parents, her siblings, her husband Fred, and her precious daughter, Terry Lynn. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Nancy Kirk (Bill), Sherry Maxwell, Mike Matthews (Sheri), Denise O’Dell (Blake), and Bryan Matthews; 8 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren (with one more on the way); and one great-great-grandchild. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Ann’s life was a beautiful testament to faith, family, love, and laughter. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and joy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Parks Senior Living for their compassionate care and love over the past three years.

A service will be held on October 2, 2025, 2:00 PM, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved Fred and daughter, Terry Lynn, at Sunset Memorial Gardens. The service will be livestreamed and can be watched by going to www.sunsetodessa.com and entering your name and zip code.