Annie O. Imlay

Annie O. Imlay, a beacon of unwavering love and selflessness, left this world to join her beloved husband in heaven on October 23, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on November 19, 1931, in the rolling hills of Tennessee, she blossomed with a grace that carried her through a lifetime of cherished moments and enduring love in Columbus, Indiana.
Embraced by the love of family, Annie was a devoted daughter to her late parents, William Manfield and Nancy Crawford Likens. She joined her life with Martin Leroy Imlay on June 11, 1948, and together they built a legacy of love until his passing on October 5, 2012, marking 64 years of sweet companionship. Annie's rich tapestry of life was woven with the threads of her family, survived by her adoring son, Steven Leroy Imlay of Mesa, Arizona; her caring daughters, Debbie Ann (Jacky Donnell) Merrick and Beverly Gail (Mike) Barrett, both of Columbus, Indiana, brother-in-law, Gary Imlay, of Columbus, and sister-in-law, Betty Henry, of Columbus. Her legacy stretches further to include cherished grandchildren Tracy Howard, Jeremy (Shannon) DeHaven, and Lacey Barrett; loving step-grandchildren Drew Soutas, Todd Clayton, Karen Tanner, and Jeff Clayton; and the joys of her life, great-grandchildren Lexie and Landon DeHaven, Ty Romine, and River Robinson; and step-great-grandchildren Devin Purtlebaugh and Deklan Soutas, as well as several step-great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She is preceded in death by her son Danny Ray Imlay, daughter Susan Kay Imlay, brother Amos Likens, and sister Amy Parker, and joins her treasured great-grandson Ryder Cregg in eternal peace.
Annie carried her faith as a steadfast member of East Columbus Christian Church, where the community was touched by her kindred spirit. Her passions were many, with a fondness for Indiana University Basketball and the Indianapolis Colts, celebrating each triumph with heartfelt enthusiasm. However, her greatest joy was found in more tender pursuits-gardening and crafting beauty with her hands through sewing and quilting. Annie gifted not just a quilt, but a fabric of memories to each of her family members, stitched with love and care.
As one who lived for her family, Annie's every action was steeped in love and thoughtfulness. "Meet me in Heaven," she would often say, a testament to her unshakeable conviction and the love she nurtures to prosper beyond her time on earth.
A funeral service celebrating Annie's life will take place at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home with the Rev. Ron Bridgewater officiating. Visitation will take place from 4:00 until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. She will be laid to rest next to her husband in Garland Brook Cemetery. Friends wishing may make memorial contributions to East Columbus Christian Church through the funeral home.
In the timeless words of Helen Keller, "What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Annie Imlay indeed has become an indelible part of all who were blessed to know her. Her spirit will continue to guide and inspire even as she finds her well-deserved rest in the arms of eternity.
You are invited to leave a message for the family via the internet. www.jewellrittman.com