News Summary
Anna Moody Howard, a cherished matriarch from Macon, GA, recently passed away, leaving a profound impact on her family and community. Born in Kentucky, Anna’s journey took her through various Southeast cities, inspiring many with her compassion and dedication. Remembered for her beauty, faith, and love for community service, her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her. A celebration of her life is scheduled for June 5, with contributions to the American Cancer Society suggested in her memory.
Macon, GA – Anna Moody Howard, a beloved matriarch and vibrant community member, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication to her family and community. Born on June 18, 1954, in Pineville, Kentucky, Anna’s life journey took her from the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains to several communities throughout the Southeast, particularly impacting those she encountered along the way.
Anna’s early years were spent in Pineville with her parents, Moody A. Howard and Margaret Broughton Howard, and her siblings, Mary and John. In 1960, seeking better opportunities, Margaret relocated the family to Brunswick, Georgia. Here, Anna’s mother worked in the legal profession and managed multiple motels on Jekyll Island, including notable establishments like The Buccaneer, Wanderer, and Carriage Inn. This lively environment introduced Anna to the world of soul music and dance, with famous entertainers like Percy Sledge, BB King, Otis Redding, and Clarence Carter performing nearby, shaping her passion for music.
Following their time in Brunswick, the family moved to Lafayette, Louisiana, where Anna graduated from Redemptorist High School. After attending local elementary schools and Glynn Academy, she pursued her studies at LSU-Monroe for three years. Anna later migrated to Atlanta with her mother, beginning a new chapter in her life.
In Atlanta, Anna began working as a flight attendant for American Airlines, which allowed her to experience life in Dallas, Texas, and New York City. It was in Atlanta where she met Ronald Payne, whom she married. They navigated life together in various cities, including Atlanta, Birmingham, and Dublin, Georgia, raising two sons, Ronald Payne II and John Payne, along with a stepdaughter, Nicole Payne. Anna also cherished her role as a grandmother to Hugh and Harrison.
Throughout her life, Anna remained deeply involved in her community. Her husband, Ronald Payne I, managed Farmers Furniture Company, and the couple became active participants in Georgia politics and community service. The Payne family eventually settled in Macon, where both sons attended First Presbyterian Day School and found fruitful careers.
The family faced tragedy when Ronald Payne I passed away in October 2014 from a heart condition. This loss brought Anna to an unexpected juncture in her life. In February 2015, she was introduced to J. Michael Powell, a fellow community member who had recently lost his wife to cancer. The couple married on January 2, 2016, at Sea Island, forging a new life together and maintaining homes in both Macon and Hawkins Island, where they formed lasting relationships in both communities.
Anna is remembered fondly by family and friends for her striking inner and outer beauty, strong faith in Jesus Christ, and unwavering compassion for those around her. Her love for dogs and her involvement in local activities made her a familiar face in her community.
A celebration of Anna’s life will be held at 11 AM on June 5, 2025, at Wesley Church of Frederica, St. Simons Island, Georgia. Additionally, an interactive service is scheduled for 1 PM on June 16, 2025, at Ingleside Baptist Church in Macon, Georgia, followed by burial at Riverside Cemetery. The family suggests that contributions be made to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers as a meaningful tribute to Anna’s memory.
The final arrangements are entrusted to Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home of Brunswick, Georgia. Anna Moody Howard’s legacy, filled with love, community involvement, and unwavering faith, will continue to inspire many in her honor.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Anna Powell
- Legacy: Ann Payne Obituary
- Shreveport Times Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Community Service
- Google News: Anna Moody Howard
