Mildred Ann Pierce O'Neal of Montgomery, Alabama was born February 6, 1936, to Junius Julius Pierce, Jr., and Mildred Paterson Pierce. She is survived by her son, Robert J. "Buster" Russell, Jr., (Laurie), her two granddaughters, Ann Lauren Kageler Russell Kathryn Pierce Russell, her brother, Junie J. Pierce, III, (Anne) and two nephews, John Scott Pierce (Allison) and William Mark Pierce (Christi).

Mildred Ann "Annie", as she was affectionately known, was baptized in and was a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church where she taught Sunday school and was a circle chairwoman. A tireless worker and passionate about serving others, she was also a pioneer for women in business in Montgomery. After selling her interest in Rosemont Gardens, she started and successfully ran the Village Garden of Montgomery for 20 years. After the sale of the Village Garden business, she and her husband moved to Mobile, Alabama where she cultivated many new friends. Upon returning to Montgomery, she worked at Nancy Paterson's Bistro in Cloverdale where she enjoyed renewing her old friendships and making new ones with the younger generation.

For the last six years, Annie struggled with a lung disease until she passed away on her birthday (February 6). Just prior to her death, she was able at her bedside to spend time with her family and many friends that she loved. Annie found comfort in her relationship with Jesus Christ and loved her "perfect" son and grandchildren unconditionally as well as her many friends to whom she was passionately loyal. She loved and appreciated all of her caregivers.

She will be missed by many but is so happy to finally be embraced by the Lord, and all of her many relatives and friends that passed before her. I am sure that she is rejoicing that she is finally home.

The family only funeral will occur on the 13th of February, with visitation following at 1:00 p.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church. The pallbearers are Bob Chappelle, Sim Penton, Randy McRae, Al Cantrell, Burns Paterson and Jimmy Louie Watkins.

The family requests, in lieu of flowers that contributions be made to your favorite charity .
Published in the Montgomery Advertiser from Feb. 11 to Feb. 12, 2017.