"We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with The LORD."  2 Corinthian 5:8

On Thursday, August 1, 2024, surrounded by family- our beloved Mama- Annie Mae Guillory entered into the eternal embrace of GOD.

Born on 07-07-1930 to loving parents, Alphonso and Alphonsine Trahan. She was the youngest of 14 children and survived them all.

Sister Guillory proudly remembers being baptized at 12 years old at the same time as her "Papa" into Greater Saint Joseph Baptist Church. She also fondly recalls being taught to crochet, knit and sew by her beloved Mother.  Annie Mae would say she had good parents and a happy childhood.

Annie Mae and best friend Doris Broxton would live with Reverend W. C. Clark and his wife while attending high school in Lake Charles, Louisiana.  In 1947, Annie Mae graduated from Second Ward High School.  She went on to work various jobs in the city, the most memorable being a Hotel Elevator Operator.

In 1961, Annie Mae Trahan married Army Solider Sidney E. Guillory, Jr. in Fenton, La . Before the decade's end, her husband and parents were deceased.  Next year, Mrs. Guillory sold her house and moved to Oakland, California with her six kids. With much help from families already migrated to Oakland, Annie Mae started a new journey. She took the Civil Service Exam, enrolled in Laney College and secured safe housing and schooling for her children.  Annie Mae quickly earned a Letter Carrier position. She remained with the U.S. Postal Service for over 20 years, retiring in1992.

Throughout her adult life, Annie Guillory worked hard and managed to enjoy life.  She was the central force in the lives of her children and many of their kids.  Her devotion to family had no limits. Using the skills learned at an early age, Annie Mae made all her kids school clothes until the seventh grade. Every family member had personalized knitted items and cable sweaters. Reciprocating the helping hand, she received when new to California, Mrs. Guillory's home was open to family and friends for as long as needed. A loyal friend, Annie Mae enjoyed taking road trips with Rose Marie and later Joyce.

In 1994, Mrs. Guillory moved to Corpus Christi, Texas with one daughter.  To her delight, the rest of her children soon followed. Crochet became her primary hobby. She created large blankets with intricate designs routinely. Now retired, Sister Guillory whole heartedly united with Friendship Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor J.R. Miller.  His encouragement and tutelage greatly enhanced Sis. Guillory's Christian walk, studying of The WORD, and service to others.  Life changing impact.  Sister Guillory loving served in the Womens' and Greeter's Ministries, FBC Choir, and maintained consistent attendance in Bible Study and Sunday School classes. Sister Guillory enjoyed travelling with FBC to Sister Churches and going on cruises with local churches. In her later years, despite health and physical challenges, Sister Guillory maintained her friendships and church attendance via ZOOM and Facebook Live Stream.

For six years, (2006-2012), GOD granted Annie Mae the blessing of living amongst family in the village of Fenton.  She left as the youngest sibling and returned as one of the few in that generation.  Blessed to worship in her parents' Home Church with a new generation of Believers. Blessed to grow in faith and knowledge of The LORD through the teaching and leadership of Pastor Wykoff whose parents Sis. Guillory knew in childhood.  Blessed to be with family for life's victories and ending. Let the circle be not broken.

Annie Mae will be remembered for her unwavering, unconditional love for her family and friends.  She was known to always quietly speak her mind and give it to you straight while still showing love, compassion and forgiveness.  She never gave up on anyone and remained a kind, gentle supporter to all those around her. She was proceeded in death by her husband, parents, siblings and a beloved grandson, Gary Cooper Flowers, Jr.

Sister Guillory legacy of love remains in her children: Donald Guillory, Pamela Trahan, Paula (Demetric)Randell, Michael Guillory, Sr. and Patricia Trahan of CCTX and Brigitte (Michael) Clophus of Fenton, Louisiana. Her resilience continues through her nine grandchildren: Monica Flowers, Tamikia Johnson, Kevin Johnson, Craig Guillory, Shaminikia Valentine, Michael Gowens, Michael Guillory, Jr. Quran Edwards-Johnson and De'Juara Edwards-Johnson. She also leaves behind 11 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Rest in the Arms of The LORD, Mama

**Service's will be live streamed through Bridge of Life's Facebook.**