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Anna Vandergriff Obituary
Mrs. Vandergriff had been diagnosed with leukemia less than two weeks earlier.
She was born June 12, 1927, to Wayne and Gladys Smith.
She graduated from Arlington High School and North Texas Agricultural College, the predecessor to the University of Texas at Arlington, and attended Texas Christian University.
She met her future husband when she was 15, and they married seven years later when he was president of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce.
He went on to become Arlington’s mayor, a congressman and a Tarrant County judge, and she remained by his side throughout his career, raising four children and regularly attending political events.
Survivors include son Victor Vandergriff; daughters Vanessa Watters, Valerie Kelton and Viveca Vandergriff; and five grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Anna Vandergriff
Susan Yantis Martin
August 18, 2009
My sympathies for your loss.
When I was a sophomore at Arlington High School, the Vandergriffs graciously hosted the cast party for "Hello, Dolly!" I have never forgotten seeing all of the framed family photos in the house. Her love of family was so apparent!
Arlington has been blessed by her life as well. Although I left Arlington over 20 years ago, I know the Vandergriffs are synonymous with Arlington and civic service.
Vicki Sharp
August 2, 2009
Dear Vanessa and family,
I was so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. She really was the pillar of Arlington and will long be remembered for her passion and spirit of giving to our hometown.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Vicki Peyton Sharp
Debra Berenson
July 25, 2009
Dear, dear Vandergriff Family,
Our hearts are heavy with the loss of our "Mrs. V." She made all those she knew feel special and loved. She had a lilting laugh, a fun personality and knew how to enjoy life - "she smelled the flowers along the way." Anna Waynette adored her husband, kids and grandkids and if you were one of their friends - she also took you into her life like you were one of the family! She lives on in all of us. Thank you for sharing her! Our love and hugs go to all of you during this hard time... Debra, Jim, Shira, and Ariana
Jim and Anne Swan
July 20, 2009
To the Vandergriff family
Our sincere condolences on the passing of the gracious lady who shared so much with all of Arlington. May you all find strength and comfort in your memories.
Cheree Brantley
July 19, 2009
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Gwen and Ben Morrison
July 19, 2009
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you in the crossing of the bar for your wonderful wife, mother grandmother and community servant.
May God continue to bless and keep you.
July 17, 2009
Dear Judge Vandergriff and family,
The world will miss the loving spirit and joyful energy of the beautiful Anna Wynette Vandergriff.
My mother, Marcella Scarborough, met your family when she taught Venessa in first grade at South Davis. She always held her in high esteem admiring her as a human being, wife and mother. She would often say that she didn't know how Mrs. Vandergriff managed to be everywhere at once and still be such a fabulous mother to her children.
My prayers and thoughts are with you as you celebrate her exceptional life.
Jane Scarborough Summerford, Fort Worth, Texas
MARCIA WADE-SHEPHERD
July 16, 2009
Dear Judge Vandergriff and family,
There are no words to express how saddened we are to hear of your beloved wife.
My parents,Wayne and Fay Wade, always had kind and dear words to say about both of you as people,citizens,and champions of the City of Arlington.
We have lost one of the true treasures of our city.
Please know our city grieves with you at this time. Our many thoughts and prayers are with you and your children,grandchildren and friends during this difficult time.
Shelly Williams
July 15, 2009
Our thoughts & prayers go out to the entire Vandergriff family. We called Arlington home for many years & know what a wonderful contribution was made.
Mark Myers
July 15, 2009
To the Vandergriff Family,
Arlington and her citzens have lost a tremendous champion, but each of you has lost a tremendous spouse, mother, grandmother, and friend.
To each of you I wish to express my condolences. Likewise, I wish to extend my thanks. You have shared Ms. V. with Arlington. Your generosity, in junction with her love and devotion to our city, has helped make Arlington rise up and shine amongst the Metroplex.
God Bless each of you in your time of grief and sorrow.
Shea Burns-Holland
July 13, 2009
Dear Val and Family:
I will never forget the kindness of your mother. Mrs. Vandergriff would go out of her way to make sure you felt very special. I always think about her and your dad every time I drive by the house on Park Row. I have some great and funny memories of your mom, and I wanted you all to know just how much she touched our lives. She was truly one in a million.
Emily Nedderman Licata
July 13, 2009
What a wonderful woman. She raised an exceptional family and has undoubtedly left her mark on Arlington.
My prayers go out to the Vandergriff family.
Virginia Pflum
July 12, 2009
Tom, Victor, Kristen, Katherine, Parker, Caroline & all the Vandergriff Family.
Our deepest sympathy to all the Vandergriff family. It was such a shock to hear about your mother & grandmother when we got back into town. I know she will live on in your memories and has provided the world with wonderful children and grandchildren to carry on her great work.
May God Bless each of you in this time of sorrow.
Monty, Virginia & Ricky Pflum
Barbara Wylie
July 12, 2009
I can still remember the first time that I saw Mrs. Vandergriff in person. She and Mr. Vandergriff were attending an event at Sam Houston High School in 1964. I was just so taken by her sweet spirit and graciousness!
May God bless and comfort each of you during this time. This beautiful lady will long be remembered.
Judy Martyn/Boehm
July 11, 2009
So sorry to hear about the passing of a wonderful lady. I'm glad to have known her and your wonderful family. With love from Atlanta, GA,
Judy Martyn Boehm/pianist
UTA & TCU grad
Roy & Deborah Madearis
July 11, 2009
We just heard of the passsing of Anna Waynette and are so very sad. She was a kind and caring woman. As a child I remember her generousity and love for Arlington; as an adult I saw her love for family and friends. She will be so very missed. Our prayers are with you; we are so blessed to have known her.
Roy and Deborah Madearis
Bobbie Ferguson
July 11, 2009
Vanessa and Mark,
Our condolences and love to the family.
Bobbie Ferguson
Diane Ferguson Foster
David Ferguson
James and Linda Stone
July 11, 2009
Tommy, Our hearts are saddened to learn of the passing of your beloved wife, Anna Waynette. As the days and weeks pass and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of your family and friends. But most of all the comfort of being wrapped up in those big big arms of Jesus because He will never leave you, He will go with you all the way.
Jay & Sharon Owen
July 10, 2009
Valerie and family,
I only just found out about your mom. Sharon and I are so sorry for you and your families loss. You will be in our prayers.
Jay & Sharon
Sondra Schubert
July 10, 2009
My granddaughter and I ran into you at the Candlelite Inn on her birthday a couple of years ago. You were so gracious and even took a picture with us! You blessed Arlington...thank you from the bottom of my heart!
July 9, 2009
To the wonderful Vandergriff family,
I just returned from the beautiful tribute to your Mother and "Grandmommy". She would have been so proud of each of you ... the poise you showed as you spoke, the precious stories and remembrances you shared and the amazing talent you displayed. She would have been so pleased and would have definitely approved! You are right, your Mother was the heart and strength of your family as was our mother, Jeanne Hawkes. We have known your parents all of our lives and are so proud of the example and model your folks have been to the city of Arlington. I know your Grandmother beamed today from Heaven as she watched each of you. Continue sharing your talents and abilities. As she said, Don't ever give up or give in. That's the special legacy she left you. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you and especially your sweet Dad.
Erin Hawkes Chaney on behalf of the George and Jeanne Hawkes family.
amy and sarah Conner
July 9, 2009
We love you
Melissa Watters-Conner
July 9, 2009
To all of the Vandergriff family,
I hated that I could not be there with all of you today, but I have had my own memorial here in my office reading all of these beautiful tributes to a wonderful lady and enjoying this picture of her with a spectacular smile. The most wonderful thing your mother ever did for me is love me no matter what I was going through, she believed in me when I did not believe in myself. I loved how her and mom would pick at each other then laugh at each others jokes. I know their together running things again. You all are full of grace because of your beautiful mother. I loved her so much and I will miss her. You will all be in my prayers.
Love, Melissa Watters Conner
July 9, 2009
As a fresh, new, reporter-photographer in the early 50's in Arlington, my late husband, Ed Barney, and I had the privilege of becoming - not only friends and neighbors of Anna Waynette and Tom Vandergriff - but strong supporters of every race he entered. Her love of the arts and his devotion to public service will always be remembered by native residents and 'newcomers' alike who came to Arlington from just about 'everywhere' when both General Mtrs. and Bell Helicopter opened plants locally within a year of each other. Tom and family, my heart aches for your loss! Anna Waynette was a very special woman, gracious hostess, and supporter of her husband, family, education and the arts. She will be missed!
Mrs. Edwin (Jen) Barney, Arlington, Texas
Sarah Merrill Young
July 9, 2009
Vandergriff family, thank you for sharing your wife, mother, and grandmother with the city of Arlington. Our prayers are with all of you. I have great memories of Mrs. Vandergriff and Ms. Smith as a child. She will be missed!
July 9, 2009
Dear Vandergriff Family,
I just wanted to share with you my and my families condolences over the loss of your precious mother. She was a wonderful woman, wife and mother. My family and your family grew up together in Arlington and my father went to school with your Dad and served the City of Arlington on the first Parks and Recreation Board. My mother went to school with Anna Waynette and shared the same maiden name with her, Smith. I remember your mother as a kind, considerate and loving person, who whenever our paths crossed would always take the time to speak with myself, my brother and sisters after the untimely death of my father in 1964. She always had time to remember you and share her beautiful love and happiness with you. It is a great loss to you, but know she is now in a better place, her suffering is over and she is awaiting the time when we all will be able to share her wonderful kindness again. Know she was loved by many, many people and that she will truly be missed.
Maurice S. "Skip" Young
Doland Maner
July 9, 2009
I have loss a very special friend,going back to the early thirties on North Elm street,where we were next door neighbors.
Livingston
July 9, 2009
My Sweet Bibby & Brady,We are so saddened with the loss of your precious Mother.Please take comfort in knowing,absence from the body is to be present with the Lord.With those thoughts, you know my sweet little "RAY of SUNSHINE" you will be with your Mother again.It is heartbreaking to loose your Mother, hang on to all the wonderful memories you have made with your beautiful Mom. We are so Blessed to have you,You are a bright shining light in our lives,your Mother will always be a Bright Shining Light in your life.We love you with all our heart.If you need anything,please let us know,we are here for you. God be with you & your family.Calvin & Eula
July 9, 2009
Dear Tommy,Vanessa,Victor,Valerie,Viveca,andall other family members---
We have such wonderful memories of your family. Tommy, you are the best Mayor Arlington has ever had or will ever have, and you could never have done it without Anna Waynette.
I wish all Arlingtonites could know of all the wonderful contributions you and Anna Waynette have made to this entire area of North Texas. I still laugh at the thought of the humorous stories you told of each other. Your family is a prize sent from God.
May God Bless you all with a Great Big Fat Hug.---Willowdean Moore Robinson
Amy Ashworth
July 9, 2009
FROM: "BUBSY" TO: "BUBBICA", TO: "VIV", & "VIVVY" - ALL I CAN THINK OF IS THE HILARIOUS, SLAPSTICK & FUN WE HAD WITH YOUR MOTHER,WHILE SHE WOULD MAKE US LAUGH, (UNTIL WE WET OUT PANTS), JUST LISTENING TO ALL OF THE NICKNAMES SHE USED TO COME UP WITH FOR YOU! IF IT WEREN'T FOR "MS. V", I WOULD NEVER HAVE HAD THE LUXURY OF DINING AT THE 1ST MCDONALDS ON ABRAM IN 1967, WITH THEIR 15 CENT HAMBURGERS, (& EVERY TUESDAY/CITY COUNSEL NIGHT - AT THAT!). I WILL NOW MISS ALL OF THOSE HEADACHES I ENDURED, (ALONG WITH CHINA-MAN EYES), FROM OUR MATCHING, & MOST PERFECT PONEY TAILS IN TOWN - ALONG WITH THE FANTASTIC SHOPPING SPREES AT BEN FRANKLIN - (& TY FOR SHARING YOUR ALLOWANCE W/ME BTW - SINCE MY FATHER DIDN'T BELIEVE IN GIVING AN ALLOWANCE?), WHILE ROBERT CARTED US ALL OVER TOWN! NOW SHE & "IRA JEAN", ARE LAUGHING & COMPARING NOTES ON WHO HAD TO BUY THE MOST RECITAL COSTUMES FROM MISS PERSIS! MOTHER ALWAYS SAID THAT REGARDLESS OF YOUR AGE, YOU NEVER-EVER GET TOO OLD TO STOP MISSING YOUR MOTHER, & NOT ONLY WAS SHE RIGHT - I WILL HAVE THESE SAME FEELINGS FOR "MS. V", AS SHE ALWAYS TREATED ME AS ONE OF HER OWN. THIS WILL BE THE MOST DIFFICULT TASK YOU WILL UNDERGO BUBS, & I AM HERE TO HOLD YOUR HAND EVERY STEP OF THE WAY... ALL OF MY HEART & SOUL GO OUT TO YOU VIV, & YOU'RE STRONGER THAN YOU REALIZE - AS YOUR SWEET, HONORABLE, & GRACIOUS MOTHER MADE YOU TO BE. WHEN IN DOUBT, SIT BACK & THINK WHAT YOUR MOTHER WOULD DO, & THIS WILL GET YOU THROUGH!
"AMY ASHWORTH" - FORT WORTH
Carlos Puente
July 8, 2009
Our prayers and condolences to Judge Vandergriff and family.
Carlos and Maria E. Puente
July 8, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
July 8, 2009
A great lady and a good friend. Her legacy is written all over this community.
Dorothy and Emory Estes
Pat and Reg Martin
July 8, 2009
The story in the Star-Telegram was a beautiful tribute to a life well lived where love and dedication to husband, family and community were touchingly recorded. Our deepest symphony.
July 8, 2009
Tom,
You won the rose, but left the flowering flutist who now remains in our memory forever. May God bless and have mercy on you both. Royce D'Arcy
July 8, 2009
Arlington has loss a true lady, friend, mother, wife and resident of this great city. We walk thru life meeting special people that may not remember our name, but always recognizes you, smiles and just says "hello." Anna Waynette made your feel you were special and that she was glad you were a part of her lunch group at all the local restaurants. She even asked how your kids were doing in college. Just asking about YOU, made your feel that you could tackle the world....because she cared to ask. I could tell you about all the interaction of families, business contacts, circle of friends that connected us...but that would be endless since we both lived here and attended school here and we just loved Arlington together. Just know that life is precious and Anna Waynette lives in our hearts....she loved all of us in some special way.
Cathy Self Allen
Brantley "Petey" Hinshaw
July 8, 2009
I was deeply sorry for the loss of wonderful first lady of Arlington. She knew my Hinshaw family when they used to live on a farm on Mayfield Rd between New York and Allen Rd. She have a great smile. To my prayer to the Vandergriff's for the wonderful Anna.
Bobbi (Morrow) Sifford-Mears
July 8, 2009
Dear Tommy and family
I send my deepest condelences in the loss of your wife and mother. I went to Arlington high with Vanessa (class of 1975) and later worked at the dealership in the early 80's. The entire family was always so gracious.
May your sorrow be eased by your memories of a wonderful, loving lady.
God bless and comfort each of you.
July 8, 2009
As a long-time Arlington resident and graduate of Arlington High class of 1975, I always have known who your family was. My Aunt Virginia Bailey was in Tom's Mother's Sunday School Class at First Methodist. My deepest sympathy to your family during this difficult time. Linda (Bailey) Moreland
Bill Melton
July 8, 2009
Honorable Tom and Family-
I join in your great saddness over the loss of your beloved wife Anna. May I extend my sincere condolences for your loss.
May God be with you, the Family and your departed partner.
Weldon Middlebrooks
July 7, 2009
The Middlebrooks family has ALWAYS been STAUNCH supporters and CLOSE friends with the Vandergriffs.
Speaking on behalf of Dean, Betty and the rest of my family, I would offer my SINCERE consideration and condolences to you Tom, and your family.
I regret that I am traveling--and can't be there for you.
BUT, please know that my/(our) respect, appreciation, concern, and friendship for you and yours is boundless...
Your DEVOTED friend,
Weldon Middlebrooks
Pete Rosenbower
July 7, 2009
I didn't know her as Mrs. Vandergriff, I knew her as Ma V. Working for Viv and Clyde I learned quickly that you did things a certain way around Ma V's house. I will always remember how cool it was to get to help put up the greatest Christmas decorations in Arlington. Hang in there Viv. Call if you need anything.
Steve Burton
July 7, 2009
Valerie, Victor, and Family,
So sorry to hear of the loss of your precious mother. Valerie and I were in an A.H.S. musical together in about 1974, and at the afterparty at your house on Park Row, your mother graciously served cookies to us from a tray. That was my one and only personal contact with her. How nice that the only contact a person ever had with another was to serve them something sweet with a smile! I pray that God grants you the peace that passes understanding.
Lovingly,
Steve Burton
Brian Thornton
July 7, 2009
I am deeply saddened at the loss of another Arlington treasure. She had an incredibly positive impact on the personality and soul of our City's community. Even those who were not privileged to be greeted by her smile and experience her graciousness have benefited from her influence which will continue to enrich Arlington for many, many generations.
I am thankful God chose to plant her in Arlington.
George & Betty Spears
July 7, 2009
July 7, 2009
Tommy and Family,
I was shocked and sadden by the news of
Anna Waynette's passing. We grew up together in Arlington. I called her several months ago to see how she and
Tommy were doing. She said, "Oh we are
getting patched here and there". She
always had something funny to say. Before she said Goodby she said, "We
have many good memories, don't we"?
Forty nine years ago when We moved to
Ft. Worth I thought my husband had moved me to California. I kept the road
to Arlington hot visitng our friends.
Every Christmas Anna Waynette sent us
beautiful cards, notes,and pictures of
the family. She was a kind and thoughtful friend. Bless her.
Friends are like stars, you don't always see them but you know they are
there.
May the prayers of those who care help
help ease the pain you are going through and memories of your loved one
bring serenity to you.
George T. and Betty Lawrence Spears
Fort Worth, Texas
July 7, 2009
We have wonderful memories of Anna Waynette, with Tom making such a great contribution to our lives.
Our condolences and best wishes to the Vandergriff family.
Carolyn & Stan Wilkes
Jana Schriever
July 7, 2009
To Vandergriff family,We are so sad to hear of your Wife and Mother's passing.Tommy and Anna made Arlington what it is today.May you find peace in knowing she was loved. The Schriever Fanily(Jana,Curt and Stacy). Flower Mound, Texas
Cathy Bush Moore
July 7, 2009
Dear Valerie,
I was so sad to hear about the loss of your Mother. She was always so fun, loved having people in her home, and always supportive. I am also sad that we have lost touch over the years. I think of you often and pray God's blessings for you and your family.
July 7, 2009
Deepest sympathy to all the family in the loss of your wife and Mom.
All the Talbots from AHS
Mary Dunlop Petty
July 7, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the Vandergriff family. Anna Waynette was such a special lady to us all. Her devotion to her family is an inspiration to me. Never seeing her without that beautiful smile and a warm greeting for everyone she came in contact with. Having known her and Tommy all my life, I feel so honored to have called her a friend. Arlington will forever miss "Our First Lady". My prayers are with you all.
James Hurley
July 7, 2009
To the Vandergriff Family we send our prayers and thanks for your years of dedication to all of us in Arlington and Tarrant County. Anna Vandergriff will always be remembered as the strength along side Tom.
With our deepest sympathies,
Jim & Carol Hurley
Cindi & Jim Cunningham
July 7, 2009
Dear Vandergriff Family,
What a blessing to have known and loved your wife and Mother. Her beautiful smile and demeanor is what I will remember most of all. Years of activity from Miss Persis' Studio of Dance created the next set of memories. My parents moved into your parents' former home on Southwood Blvd. and for so many years they were 'backyard' neighbors. I am sending condolences on behalf of the Charles & Judy Beckham family as well as the Ivan & Bitsy Cunningham family to all of you at this time of sudden loss.
With our deepest sympathies,
Jim & Cindi (Beckham) Cunningham
Bitsy Cunningham
Ric & Steve Cunningham & families
Dave Mueller
July 7, 2009
On behalf of my daughter Christine (who graduated from LHS with Parker) and myself, please accept our most sincere condolences. To Victor, Kristin and Parker, please know that we are thinking of you in this difficult and emotional time.
Glenn Day
July 7, 2009
My heartfelt condolences to Tom Vandergriff and all of the Vandergriff family.
Alyce Boyd
July 7, 2009
Sincere condolences to the Vandergriff family from the family of a former
AHS classmate, Obie Dale Boyd.
Alyce Boyd
Bill & Bettye Lewis
July 7, 2009
From the time we moved to Arlington in 1961 the Vandergriff family has been special to us...and no words can express the great sympathy we feel for you at this time of your loss.... a loss for all who has known and loved each of you. Our prayers are with you now and always.
Jerry Bucher
July 7, 2009
(From New Zealand - 8 July 2009)
To the Vandergriff family,
I found out over the 4th of July weekend when I called back into my Mother-in-law Pat, about the most recent diagnosis of our dear sweet Anna Waynette. Then I got an email from Persis Ann this morning about Anna Waynette's passing.
I have to admit, I shed tears. But, kowing we all will pass, the positive light in my mind also relayed that she was now in Heaven with my dear sweet Pam and her Dad, Tom.
I then signed on a few minutes ago once I got to my hotel room to make sure that Victor and Kristen and their family know how much I thought of his Mother and their family's commitment to Arlington.
I am a true believer in the phrase that "behind every good man is an even better woman". It maybe a worn out term, but so appropriate for Tom and Anna Waynette Vandergriff.
I was fortunate enough to know and be around them at many dance functions and events related to Arlington, the Persii and the dance studio. We all know and love them and their family.
Miss Anna Waynette was the best representative of a Mother, community activist, parent that I could think of at this point for the great city of Arlington. My business and personal travels have stamped 41 different countries on my passports. She sticks out in this crowded and big world and I am proud to say I knew her.
Victor & Kristen, I will never forget your past support for Pam's issues and only wish you all the same support for the sweet Miss Anna Waynette's passing. I hope they meet up soon to have Pam dance to the tickled ivories of the ONLY person I will always believe is Miss Arlington! -jb
The Rev. Donald P. Owens, Jr.
July 7, 2009
I was very saddened to hear of the death of Anna Waynette. From childhood I admired her and always enjoyed getting to see her. It has been many years now since I saw you two. Know that you, Tommy, and Anna Waynette, and the family are in my prayers.
Claudia Perkins
July 7, 2009
Arlington has lost another one its most precious jewels. As a resident of Arlington since 1960, I have always appreciated the contributions and sacrifices made by the Vandergriff Family. Thank you for all you have done for our city. You will be missed.
July 6, 2009
Dear Vandergriff family,
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Anna Waynette's passing. It was 10 years ago when I felt this same pain with Mrs Vandergriff. This is a very sad day. Tommy, you and your family will stay in our prayers.
Pinki Dutta Edwards
Clyde Wade
July 6, 2009
Tom, Vanessa,Mark, Victor, Kristen, Katherine, Parker, Caroline, Valerie, Paul, Kendal, Rachel, and most especialy Viveca ( Bubsy - Bubby )and Brady. I am having trouble coming up with words to express the feeling of loss and sadness that the passing of AnnaWaynette ( Ma V ) brings. I hope you all will accept my love and sympathy. AnnaWaynette loved a lot of things but nothing compared to how much she loved her family. I truly know that I was one of the luckiest men in the world to have had her touch my life. She was the greatest, and I will always fondly remeber her as the Queen of Park Row ! I wish all of you peace in the days ahead.
Love,
John Thomas
July 6, 2009
I am saddened to hear of the loss of a great light in the Heart of Arlington. My sincerest sympathies to the Vandergriff family. She will truley be missed.
Garland Jeter
July 6, 2009
Victor I am so sorry for your loss my deepest sympathy. Extend my sympathy to your dad and the rest of your family. God be with you in your time need.
Ronald Smith
July 6, 2009
My Deepest Regards to the family.She will be Missed.
Sandy Haberkamp
July 6, 2009
From Earl and Sandy Haberkamp- Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to the family especially Vanessa and Mark. We would like to attend the service. We will keep you in our prayers.
staci c o'toole
July 6, 2009
with deepest sympathy.
Cheri Cabal
July 6, 2009
Dear Vanessa,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this time of loss. I appreciated your mother's graciousness and friendliness to me and my family and to Ted's family. She was a wonderful ambassador for Arlington.
Love,
Cheri Bush Cabal
Hollis Whiteside
July 6, 2009
I have known your parents since i was around seven years old. They used to come in our family dry cleaners Whiteside Cleaners.
When I had my first daughter I named her after Anna Waynette, Her name is Anna Waynette Creek.My parents were friends with your parents for many many years.They have been wonderful friends to our entire family.We will miss her very much and your family will be in our thoughts & prayers, Send your Dad our love.
Suzie and Van Fanning
July 6, 2009
Arlington has suffered a great loss. Mrs. Vandergriff was such a wonderful, loving, gracious and sweet First Lady. She was just herself wherever she went or whatever she was doing. At one point in our lives both of our Grandfathers and our Father worked for the Vandergriff's. Whenever we'd run into her she was such fun to be around.
We know God will be watching over your family at this time.
You are in our prayers,
Suzie and Van Fanning (children of Paul and Kathleen Fanning)
July 6, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Vandergriff family during this difficult time. God Bless you and ease your grief.
Judge Pat Ferchill and the staff of Probate Court No.2
Peri Laidlaw Elliott
July 6, 2009
Val,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
July 6, 2009
Was very sadden to hear of her death, a truly wonderful lady. We have known the family for years, ever since Tommy and Anna Waynette married. Our deepest sympathies to the family and Tommy. A great loss to Arlington. Betty and George Parr
July 6, 2009
Viveca,
We didn't know your mother real well, but know she was a special lady to have such a wonderful and loving daughter like you. Our neighhborhood hasn't been the same since you moved. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this most difficult time.
The Reilings
Lori Bullington Richman
July 6, 2009
Mrs. Vandergriff, what a wonderful Arlington lady. Many years ago I was driving down Park Row when the car in front of me had a tire blow-out. I stopped by to help the woman, not knowing it was Mrs. Vandergriff. I said "do you need a ride somewhere" and she said "honey, my husband has loads of cars!" She then told me who she was and we had a great laugh. Fun woman, and may she rest in peace!
jennifer briggs gerst
July 6, 2009
I adored this woman, and admired her stamina for her family, the arts and the city.
She was truly amazing and just the picture of gracious.
July 6, 2009
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Anna Waynette. What a wonderful and kind lady--know we are thinking and praying for your family during this very sad time! The Stricklands, Rick, Linda, Laura, Ben, and Sam
July 6, 2009
To Vick and all the Girls--You know I love All of you. I have never worked for a better, nicer or loving person than Mrs. Vandergriff.
All of you are in my prayers.
Frances Owens
Frances Owens
July 6, 2009
To Vick and all the Girls--You know I love All of you. I have never worked for a better, nicer or loving person than Mrs. Vandergriff.
All of you are in my prayers.
Frances Owens
Kelly Rodriguez
July 6, 2009
Deepest condolences to the Vandergriff family. Mrs. Vandergriff was well respected and admired. An honorable role model for many!
You are in my prayers.
Jan Jones Webb
July 6, 2009
What a sweetheart, Anna Waynette was....full of style, grace and dignity. A true treasure to her friends, family and to Arlington.
July 6, 2009
To the Vandergriff Family:
Please accept our heartfelt regrets in the loss of your Mom. She was so gracious...strong, thoughtful and full of humor. I will miss her smile and laugh.
We pray that your fondest memories will be of comfort to each of you during this very difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your Dad.
Gary & Sandra Harris
Sherry Gould
July 6, 2009
I'm so sorry to hear about Anna Waynette's passing. Please know your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I consider it a blessing to have known your mom...what a strong, gracious lady...always so thoughtful.
I have missed having her and the "girls" visiting Boo Boo's for their weekly lunch dates.
Sherry Gould
Libby Altwegg
July 6, 2009
Dear Vanessa, Victor, Valerie and Viveca-
Your Mother and Father hold such a special place in my heart and memories. Occasionally I would see them drive down Southwood, just keeping an eye on the place and that always made me feel a bit safer in the world. I never saw your Mom without that big smile on her face, even when she was dressed in her black costume, with her long black hair down, handing out popcorn balls on the porch on Halloween.
My deepest condolences on your loss. I truly loved your Mom.
All my love,
Libby Altwegg
Jean O'Toole
July 6, 2009
Arlington has lost a great lady.
Vicki Hooker
July 6, 2009
Truly the most wonderful & gracious Lady I've ever known.All of Arlington was a better place to live by her being here. I will miss her terribly.My deepest sympathy to her wonderful family.
Vicki Hooker - Kar-Lynn Arts Arlington, Tx.
Randy Hiley
July 6, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Tommy & Lila Waldrop
July 6, 2009
Though we are saddened upon hearing of her passing, we can't help but remember how she made all our lives so much richer. She was a wonderful gracious lady in every sense of the word. Anna Waynette will always be OUR Mrs. Arlington.
Jill Rizzo
July 6, 2009
the most impressive lady ever...both graceful and strong.... arlington wont seem the same without seeing her about town love jill and sam
Raffy Aladro
July 6, 2009
My condolences to the Vandergriff family. I met Mrs. Vandergriff in 1984 at my Mom's home in Fort Worth. She was our guest speaker at the monthly meeting of the garden club. She spoke of her life as first lady of Arlington. She spoke with such pride for her husband and children. It was a great honor to have known her and to be in her presence. Our Lord blessed you with a wonderful Mother. God Bless you and comfort you.
Cathy Brown
July 6, 2009
I am shocked and saddened by the news of Mrs. Vandergriff's passing. I am glad she didn't have long to suffer, but the speed with which all this happened is surely a tough challenge for the family.
My thoughts are with you all in this time of loss.
Cathy Bontley Brown
Dana Motsenbocker
July 6, 2009
Dear Valerie and family,
My late parents, thought so dearly of your mother. I know that they would be saddened, as we are.
Passings will shadow your house, in veils of memory, but not darkness.
Your friends,
Dana and Deanna Motsenbocker
Judy Yacio
July 6, 2009
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Mrs. Vandergriff gave so much to Arlington and was always so gracious when she attended AMH functions with Tom.
Judy Yacio, past president
AMH Auxiliary
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