Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Ann King Obituary
Family-Placed Death Notice
KING, Ann Ann King, Founder /CEO Blooming Cookies, Save Our Pets Food Bank, Morningside Community Garden. Theresa Ann King, friend, sister, entrepreneur, visionary, and animal lover left this world on Wednesday, March 7, 2012. Ann was born in Columbus, Georgia on September 22, 1951, the daughter of Robert A. "Pete" King and Doris Coker King (Newsom). Ann was very proud of her parents and sisters Carole and Sally, and her Columbus and Abbeville, SC heritage. Her mother was the first Miss Georgia in the state's history. She was a 1969 graduate of Columbus High School and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1973 with an ABJ in Journalism. While at UGA and in leadership positions in her Tri-Delta Sorority, she honed her abilities in public relations as well the ability to talk anyone into anything. There was no better story teller in the world than Ann King. After College and during the glamour days of air travel, Ann became a flight attendant for Delta Airlines and traveled the world. Her fellow flight attendants became life-long friends. While watching a TV program one morning in 1984, Ann was impressed by the featured product, long-stemmed roses. Soon after, Ann founded Blooming Cookies, which became a multi-million dollar nationally recognized gift company. The rocking horse Ann created as a baby gift holds a special place in thousands of homes. Ann graciously provided support and advice to others seeking to start their own businesses and often spoke at conferences and in classrooms about her experience in starting and running a successful business. Although Ann won numerous awards and recognitions and was widely known and respected in the business community, she would want to be remembered for providing jobs for hundreds of people, creating a workplace family, and making gifts that made a difference in people's lives. Ann loved her family and friends, many of whom knew her as the "Mayor of Morningside" because of her long-term active involvement in the neighborhood. She knew her neighbors and genuinely cared about them. If someone needed help, Ann was the first one there. Ann was a friend to all animals. Her life was dedicated to taking care of and rescuing animals of all types. After closing Blooming Cookies in 2007, she founded Save Our Pets Food Bank in an effort to provide food to the pets of people who were struggling with the poor economy. Putting her CEO mindset to work, she navigated the pet food bank to national prominence and became a mentor to others in that area. Ann was a creative genius, a talented athlete, a beautiful woman, and a gentle soul. She is survived by her two sisters: Sally Burger of Pulaski, Tennessee, niece Anne Lindsey and nephew Brandon, and Carole Kendall of Columbus, niece Annesley and nephews Ran and Rob. She will be greatly missed by many close friends who loved her dearly. A memorial service for Ann will be held at 2pm on Saturday, March 17 at the Virginia Highland Church, 743 Virginia Ave. NE, Atlanta. In lieu of flowers, we request that you make a donation to the organization Ann founded, Save Our Pets Food Bank (saveourpetsfoodbank.org).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ann King
Sponsored by sally burger.
Cindi H. Branch, Ph.D.
March 8, 2025
Ann, I think of you often and the impact you had on so many people, pets & animals. Your humor, compassion & dedication were unparalleled.
N. Hy
July 29, 2023
Ann gave my mother, a disabled refugee a job at Blooming Cookies. This changed my family's life. When no one else would give her a job, seeing she could barely walk and barely speak english. I remember walking/running around the factory floor, talking to all the coworkers and being frightened of the large black dog. My favorite part was getting a chocolate chip cookie. I remember Ann taking me and my cousin trick-or-treating and easter egg hunting...somehow we'd find large baskets filled to the rim full of candies and treats...I'd never seen so much candy in my life.
She was a wonderful human with a pure heart. My mother remembers her fondly and keeps her memory alive by telling me stories of her time working at Blooming Cookies.
Deborah Dominey
July 29, 2022
I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT ANN. SHE WAS SO PURE HEARTED AND LOVED ANIMALS AS I DO. SHE SALLY, AND CAROL LIVED ON CAMILLE DRIVE DOWN THE STREET FROM MY HOUSE AT 2127 HILLSIDE DR. WE ALL USE TO PLAY TOGETHER. THE ARRINGTON'S, LOGAN'S, MOORE'S.
I KNOW LIVE AT THE BASE OF LAKE TAHOE IN A TOWN CALLED STINKIN LINCOLN, CALIFORNIA. I AM GOING TO TRY TO GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU CAROL, AND SALLY. IF YOU NEED ANYTHING,LET ME KNOW. MYPHONE NUMBER IS (916) 316-7086
Vernon James
December 18, 2019
From the family of the late dexter priddy thanking blooming cookies for sending a basket to my mother after Dexter's passing I remember Ann and my cousin dexter from the beginning of blooming cookies he loved her so much that's all he could talk about even living with her family a some points in his life what wonderful people god bless
Cindi Branch, Ph.D.
March 11, 2019
Ann, it has been 7 long years without you in our midst...of course, you are always with us and the pets as we try to carry on your legacy. You left such big shoes to fill. We needed you much longer to teach us, to lead us and to have us never forget how important each and every pet is. Our world is not quite as bright without you, my friend. You are so loved and missed.
Ann Garner
March 9, 2019
The rescue community continues to miss Ann tremendously. Ann gave so much to animals and the people who cared for them. We will always remember Ann and the good she did.
Larry Shinall
January 2, 2013
I live in Charlston these days and knew Ann from my early years in Atlanta when she was getting Blooming Cookies off the ground. There was something about Ann that was always different, always positive. She seemed to be able to go through life with a smile, with encouragement and with an outlook of adventure. I can see Ann now, backing up her Trooper with dogs in tow to load up supplies from our warehouse. I kind of envied the dogs, they were off on another Ann King mission.
God bless you Ann. I was looking up your number today to say hello next week while in Atlanta.... I am so sad to see that you are gone. I'll still drive down Piedmont Rd past the original store and down to Morningside Drive to say good bye. We love you Ann.
Denise Topshe-Mastry
May 28, 2012
I only recently heard of Ann's passing - so SAD and shocked! I know how she she lived such a full life of love in giving and doing for others - her thoughtfulness was abound! I remember having surgery at Emory in Atlanta, years after we had last seen or talked to each other (I lived in Florida) and she and another friend came to visit me out of the blue....I was so surprised that she had even heard about me and cared enough to make the effort to visit me. THis is one of many examples of her unselfish and caring nature. I know you are at peace now and God is blessing you with all your great works here on earth! ......missing you and know that your pet services will live on b/c of all you did....I love animals as well and so happy to hear of all you did!
Kelly McCowen
May 16, 2012
I just learned of Ann's passing tonight, 5/16/12. She was a client of mine in the 90's when I sold commercial printing. I had the honor of printing their catalog. She was such a beautiful person both inside and out. We lost touch throughout the years, but I will never forget the warmth, grace and hospitality that she bestowed upon me. Her legacy will live on.
helen klaw
April 24, 2012
i am one of the people that ann helped keep my pets. she was a kind and caring person whose love for animals touched the heart of many. if not for ann and save our pets food bank i would not have been able to feed my animals during a very difficult time. She was a very special women and one who while i only got to know for a short while will leave a life long memory of her.
Ali CrookAvrett
April 18, 2012
I was sadden by the news of Ann's passing.She will always be a sky sister and will be remembered in my heart forever.
Heather Buskard
April 17, 2012
I am deeply saddened by this news of Ann Kings passing. What a great loss- both to me personally and to so many who depended on her to help them keep their pets during tough economic times. I am one of the many people she helped and went as far as to drive me to Pet smart near her house and buy me out of her own pocket the expensive prescription cat food that I could not afford for my cat who cannot eat anything else. I cant help but to wonder/worry about what will happen to her organization she was so devoted to as well as the kind and man who worked tirelessly at the warehouse to load cars/trucks with much needed pet food. Where is he now? I know that he lived at Anns house with his 2 cats. What will happen to him? And finally, all of her personal pets- her 6 beautiful dogs and many cats enjoyed an incredible life filled with love and the best environment these animals could ask for! Where are they now? And dear Ann- always there to lend a hand, to comfort and inspire. Such a generous heart! I will miss her. The world has lost a do-er, a problem solver, an activist, philanthropist, an involved contributor to her community. I pray that her work will continue. Her dedication to people of any socioeconomic background and the animals that they so love and are unable to part with even in hard times. Rest in peace dear Ann and take care of all the precious animals that surround you in heaven.
Curtis Ingram
March 24, 2012
I only knew Ann King for a week when she was in college. the Tri Delts came to my fathers yacht, the Venus at Murrell's Inlet in SC for Spring Break. I remmeber Ann as being a beautiful woman who was fun to be around. I was alaways happy to hear from my sister Sarah Sue that Ann had become so successful in Blooming Cookies. She was a classy lady.
Paula/Mindy Freedman
March 17, 2012
Ann,
May you hear the words above - that you taught my daughter to generously give to all the 4 legged animals that have unconditional love and just need a small substance in return. Your charitable work will survive and always be passed forward. May you always be remembered for your contributions to living beings. May you rest in peace.
Bodie on Lake Lanier
Jef Allen
March 16, 2012
Ann was a force of nature. One of the most unique people I have ever had the pleasure to meet. We shared a love of Lake Lanier, and her dogs were a fixture in our cove in the summertime. Her love of animals was contagious, and she committed much of her life to their welfare. We will miss you, Ann.
BEATRICE RUSH
March 16, 2012
"So what lessons do I learn when a precious friend dies suddenly at age 60?"
Unfortunately, the great insights are often the great cliches:
Life goes by fast,
don't waste a moment,
tell the one you love how you feel,
show affection every chance you get---
because I would give anything to hug Annie
and tell her how she made my life better...sweeter...
just one more time.
Oh, oh, my God... how I am going to miss her.
But I want my post to be uplifting, so here it goes...
It's okay to feel this pain.
In fact, if you have been as lucky as I have been the "friend department",
it would be an outrage not to cry.
You can't have an up with out a down,
a right without a left,
a back without a front---
or a happy without a sad.
That's the price that all us pay for having a friend like Ann King.
You get the wonder,
the joy,
the infectious laughter,
the tender moments---
and then you get the tears at the end, too.
My friend, my beloved Annie, is worth every tear.
I love you. Beatrice
March 15, 2012
Ann was one of the most generous people I have ever been blessed to know. She always had her hand out to help another person up! Will miss her. Deb Paradise, Birmingham, Al.
Ann D'Agostino
March 15, 2012
I knew Ann first as a Flight Attendant and then as a cookie entrepeneur. She was a class act. I loved her cookies.
Samantha Holton
March 15, 2012
Ann King was one of the kindest and gentlest souls I have ever had the priviledge of knowing..a true friend to all animals. She helped so many people hang on to their pets in this devestating time of economic depression by supplying food for these needy animals. As an animal rescuer in an uncaring county, she helped me feed the many rescues I have taken under my wing so they could go on to find happy homes. She loved her own animals so much and I am so thankful to have known such a wonderful lady. You will be sadly missed and always rememberd for all the goodness you were so full of...You are now with your sweet English Setter you missed so much and spoke of so often...oh the sweet kisses you must be getting..I can only imagine! Some friends come into our lives and leave way too quickly..You were this friend to me but "you" my friend, left footprints on my heart that will remain there forever...
March 15, 2012
Ann was very special to me. She called me an artist long before i ever made a dime being one. I will miss you my friend.
Jeff Thorn Lynn In.
Rhonda Alexander
March 14, 2012
Ann was a true inspiration in persuading others to become all they dream. I am so fortunate in working with this remarkable human being in the beginnings of Bloomin' Cookies. Ann is sadly missed.
Becky Coker Bauers
March 14, 2012
I'm saddened by this news. Ann and I were first cousins. She was 13 years older than me. We were never really close...unfortunately. I do remember her being a such a sweet person, with a big heart. I find comfort in knowing that she is with my aunt, my grandmother and my daddy ... joyfully, singing in heaven.
Ann Garner
March 14, 2012
I didn't know Ann long enough, having met her only about six months ago through a mutual animal rescuer friend. Helping people and animals was something she was truly passionate about, a testament to her true spirit and character. Ann will be greatly missed. She is now helping God take care of all of the animals in Heaven.
Josie Giles
March 14, 2012
You will be missed by so many—both those with paws and tails and those without. May others be inspired by your purpose-driven life and by your countless good deeds! Journey well, Ann!
Ina Feinberg
March 14, 2012
Ann's warmth and compassion left an unforgettable impression on everyone she touched, both two-legged and four. Our childhood friendship remained steady even as we traveled our individual life paths. She is deeply missed but remains in my heart and mind, her spirit will always be a comfort.
Cindi Branch
March 14, 2012
Annie, our world is a bit dimmer without you. Love, compassion, entrepreneurial wisdom, humor, selflessness and beauty are, but a few words that describe your character. I feel so grateful and blessed to have been touched by your incredible spirit. My thoughts and prayers go out to family and host of friends you leave behind. May we carry your legacy forward with your zeal for others.
Hannah Mays
March 14, 2012
May God bless Ann and provide her all the pets to love.
Berkley Tante
March 14, 2012
So many years since I was with Ann but am overwhelmed by all the wonderful things she accomplished. She will definitely be missed. Rest in peace.
S Beth Harris
March 14, 2012
A very lovely lady and a great advocate/friend to ALL animals -- a very sad loss.
Julia McCormick McKissack
March 14, 2012
Ann, I will always remember our good times at UGA and the many adventures we had in and out of the Tri Delt House. College life wouldn't have been half as much fun without you. You went on to make others' lives better wherever you traveled. I will miss you and cherish the conversations and the visits with you. May your family find comfort in knowing that you truly made this world a better place - for friends and strangers alike. God bless you and your family. John: 14:1-3
Allison Davis
March 14, 2012
Ann, you were a sweet and wonderful lady and an incredible "old soul" - I hope you are petting all the babies in heaven. You definitely will be so missed. Thank you for your amazing generosity in heart and spirt.
March 14, 2012
Twila really did say it best...so successful on so many fronts and always delightful to fly with or run into anytime. A very special, capable and caring lady..she will be missed by so many. Terri Wright Lightmas, CHS 1969, Delta Air Lines F.A., 1972-2004
C Palmer
March 14, 2012
May God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Isaiah: 12:2
Cindy Poortinga
March 14, 2012
To Ann, that fun loving person alaways made me laugh even in the darkest of times... She wasn't afraid to love at heself either. She was Always there to offer suggestions, help and nothing was too difficult... Ann looked for the silver lining and the positives of each situation, obstacle and considered them opportunities. She touched many and helped those who couldn't help themselves. Thanks for allowing me the opportunity to know you, Ann!
Patty Branch
March 14, 2012
Twila said it all. Ann was a spectacular lady and will be greatly missed. My prayers are with her family. She was taken way too soon! Patty Branch ( Columbus, Ga)
Twila Rhodes Kirkland
March 14, 2012
Beautiful, brilliant, funny and compassionate. A special lady who put her resources behind an orphan cause and made a real difference in her community. Ann, you left us way too soon......may you rest in peace and rise in Glory.
Showing 1 - 36 of 36 results
Make a Donation
in Ann King's name
Memorial Events
for Ann King
How to support Ann's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Ann King's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
