Ann Humphreys

ANN HAWTHORNE HUMPHREYS, 58 ROCKFORD - Ann Hawthorne Humphreys, 58, is now singing at the feet of Jesus, her "Great Reward." After having faithfully run her race in this life to the glory of her Savior, Ann entered His presence Wednesday, May 4, 2011, surrounded by her beloved family. Born Feb. 19, 1953, in Shreveport, La., to Amos and Helen Hawthorne. Ann grew up in Lufkin, Texas, and graduated magna cum laude with a BA in special education from the University of Texas in Austin. She married Steve Humphreys on Nov. 29, 1975, and they lived most of their married lives in Rockford. She filled her life with the people and activities she loved, and she taught others to do the same. Ann, first and foremost a committed wife and mother, taught all four of their children at home, was a freelance artist, teacher and tutor, a youth leader in her church and was involved in Starlight Theatre for more than 20 years. She was an inspiration to all who knew her as she continued to live a full, joy-filled life despite a five-year battle with cancer. She will be deeply missed by husband, Steve; children, Stefanie, Sarah, Samantha and John; and son-in-law, David Brickey. She was also surrounded by the love of her grandchildren, Sofia, Ava, Camille and Jude; brother, Michael Hawthorne, and sister, Gayle Bender and their families; parents-in-law, John and Sally Humphreys; sisters-in-law, JoAnne Jury, Tammy Johnston and Elizabeth Humphreys; brother-in-law, Ben Humphreys; and their spouses and families. Service at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, May 8, in First Baptist Church of Machesney Park, 718 Harlem Road, with visitation from 3:30 p.m. to time of service.