January 29, 1948 - October 2, 2022
Ann Sly Porter passed away peacefully at St. Vincent's Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas on Sunday, October 2, 2022, due to complications following surgery. Ann was born in Memphis, Tennessee on January 29, 1948 to Robert E. Sly and Joy Lee Kirkpatrick Sly. Ann married Jesse E. ''Rusty'' Porter Jr. of West Helena, Arkansas on July 31, 1971 and they settled in West Helena where they raised their three children, Katie, Jed and Sarah.
Touching the lives of many youth, Ann served as a Girl Scout and Boy Scout leader and Odyssey of the Mind and Quiz Bowl advisor for years. She was passionate about imparting her love of the English language and literature to high school remedial, general and AP levels and college students. Her creative talents were used not only with her students but also in theatre. She frequented the stage as lead and chorus roles in Helena Little Theatre performances. Two of her favorite roles were as M'Lynn in Steele Magnolias and Reverend Mother in Sound of Music. As a member of Junior Auxiliary, she created decorations for the annual Charity Ball and initiated a special youth program, Kids College, that engaged hundreds of children in arts, science and technical subjects over the years. Ann also served as an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma and PTO.
With a bachelor's degree from the University of Arkansas and master's from the University of Memphis, Ann taught English for decades at both Central High School (Helena-West Helena, Arkansas) and North Arkansas College, where she created a Shakespeare festival complete with costumes and appearances by Queen Elizabeth (played by Ann), the Bard and his creations.
In fact, if you were her student, you can likely quote the following:
''To-morrow, and to-morrow, and to-morrow,
Creeps in this petty pace from day to day,
To the last syllable of recorded time;
And all our yesterdays have lighted fools
The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle!
Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player,
That struts and frets his hour upon the stage,
And then is heard no more. It is a tale
Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing.''
William Shakespeare, Macbeth
Upon retirement, she settled into a busy rhythm of community engagement, travel and reading. She became Master Gardener Certified, led and participated in book clubs, served on the Helena Little Theatre and Helena Museum boards and enjoyed singing in the church choir and playing bridge with old and new friends.
Ann most enjoyed celebrating the accomplishments of her children, their spouses and her grandchildren. She traveled many miles to support graduations, attend sporting events and taking care of them all. She would only be seen out of her Razorback red to support her grandchildren's or son-in-law's sports teams. Her Facebook feed was filled with shared posts of her grandchildren's athletic and academic accomplishments. However, she celebrated most the various roles they played in theatre productions following in their Meme's footsteps to memorize Shakespeare, emote a range of emotions and continuously step out of their comfort zones.
Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Bob and Joy Lee.
She is survived by her husband, Rusty; her children, Katie Mantooth (Jamie) of Martin, Tennessee, Jed Porter (Micah) of Batesville, Arkansas and Sarah Russell (Ryan) of Columbia, Missouri; her grandchildren, Porter, Betsy and Jack of Martin, Tennessee and Mike of Batesville, AR; cousins, Ginny Lou Cronan of Dallas, Texas, Judy Kelly (Mickey) of Kingsland, Georgia and Jan Glosser (Jeff) of Austin, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, Ann would enjoy friends and family supporting two of her loves, the environment and theatre. Donations in honor of Ann Porter can be sent to: Helena Little Theatre, C/O Don Eastman, 121 Kesl Lane, West Helena, AR 72390; Westview High School, Weakley Playhouse Theatre C/O Martin Kane, 8161 Hwy 45, Martin, TN 38237; or Phillips County Master Gardeners C/O Charles Gunn, 2886 Phillips County 300, Helena-West Helena, AR 72390.
A service celebrating her life, officiated by Reverend Buddy Hamner, will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 15 at Helena Methodist Church in Helena-West Helena, Arkansas. Visitation will be held 9:00-11:00 a.m. A private interment ceremony will take place later at Cypert Cemetery in Marvel, Arkansas.
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61 Condolence(s)
Bill White
Wednesday, November 2, 2022
Rusty,
So sorry for your loss.
Bill and Pat White
Rex Jones
Tuesday, November 1, 2022
Judge, Katie, Jed, Sarah…my heart is broken for your loss. Ann was a gift to this world and this life. She touched the lives of generations. Respected, reverend, admired, loved. There will never be another Ann Porter.
She is a once in a lifetime spirit.
Ann is pure goodness, happiness, hope, encouragement, love and absolute perfection…
I will forever be thankful for and always fondly remember my teacher.
Very respectfully,
LtCol Rex Jones
United States Marine Corps
Kathy Snyder
Sunday, October 16, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss. May God comfort each of you during these days ahead. ðŸ™
Aurora Provost
Saturday, October 15, 2022
I was very saddened to hear of Mrs. Porter’s passing. She was an amazing teacher and a kind soul. As a young girl from Helena, AR leaving to attend college, I initially had my reservations as to whether I could be competitive. However I found that Mrs. Porter’s class had thoroughly prepared me for college. She had high expectations but was extremely fair and gave chance after chance for those willing to put in extra effort. I looked forward to her class and her unique perspective on the literature she shared with us. She was funny and witty and I appreciated our shared passion for music. Had I not had previous commitments, I would definitely have made the trip to pay my respects to her family, especially to my classmates, Katie and Jed. My prayers for your peace at this time. May God bless and keep you.
Ricky Tinsley
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Sincere condolences and prayers for the family and friends.
Annie Carol Jones
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Sincere condolences. Katie,you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Renato Profico
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Dear Rusty, Katie, Jed and Sarah
I just read of Ann's passing away. It makes me very sad. I always hoped to see her again soon - together with you all. Fate willed it otherwise. I express my deepest condolences and wish you that the beautiful memories of Ann will soon replace the grief. I have great memories of the time I was privileged to spend with Ann and you all. My time in Helena, how you welcomed me into the family with open arms, Ann's kindness, positive energy and all your open hearts shaped me positively for life. I will always carry Ann and the associated memory of this time in your family in my heart. Again, my heartfelt condolences.
Renato
Paulette Parker
Friday, October 14, 2022
Dear Rusty, my words cannot express my sadness for you and your family at this time. I will always remember working with Ann in so many HLT productions. I must confess that I never laughed so hard watching her in “Nunsense.†She was fabulous on stage and off stage. In fact, she was just a fabulous person.
Blessings to you and your family.
Andy and Evelyn coats
Friday, October 14, 2022
Prayers for all the family
Mike and Diane Hardin
Thursday, October 13, 2022
Rusty, Katie, Jed, and Sarah- saddened to learn of Ann’s death. Many wonderful memories from Central and Helena. You all are in our prayers.
Charles D Gunn or Charles Gunn
Wednesday, October 12, 2022
Rusty, I know we have talked but know that I am praying for you. I go Thursday to Master Gardener meeting and it will not be the same without Ann. I loved her smile, humor, friendliness. She is missed!
Markell Dodd
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Mrs. Porter, was among my favorite teachers that invested in teaching the whole student. She pushed you to excel beyond what you didn't think you were academically able to achieve. I enjoyed having her during my matriculation at Central High School from AP English, The Year Book, and she recruiting me to participate in the community theater. I am blessed and honored to have known Mrs. Porter. May God grant the family peace and comfort during this difficult time; Markell Dodd.
Alan, Sandy & Aaron Kirk
Sunday, October 9, 2022
We are so sorry for your loss and God Bless your family.
Diane Bryant
Sunday, October 9, 2022
Sorry to hear about Ann's death. She was a dear sorority sister and very well respected with her peers.
Laura Berry
Saturday, October 8, 2022
I’m so sad at hearing this news. Ann and I worked together for years at Northark and the wonderful smile in her picture is how I will always remember her. I will be praying for family and friends.
Rick Yeager
Saturday, October 8, 2022
So sorry to hear the passing of your loved one. Prayers for you and your family.
James King
Friday, October 7, 2022
Rusty you are in my prayers.
John B. Thurman Jr.
Friday, October 7, 2022
The Thurman branch of the Howell family (Lucille Howell Sly). sends their condolences. Everyone has grown so far apart and the second cousins have only met at funerals. But Virginia and Robert spent a lot of time at my house in the 30s and 40s before Jack and Virginia moved to Dallas. Virginia and Joy were two very talented, very beautiful women and Calle was a true character! Love my cousins and sad that we were never able to get to know each other. I guess the last time I saw Ann was at Mary Gail’s funeral. Not many relatives left in Dardanelles. Please give everyone a big hug for Johnny! Love you
Kay Palmer
Friday, October 7, 2022
Judge, I am so sorry! What wonderful tributes I just read about Ann. I know that your grands are important to you and were to Ann. Hold on tightly to your family and your faith!
Affectionately, Kay
Penny Culver
Friday, October 7, 2022
I enjoyed my friendship with Ann in so many activities, but especially Current Topic. She was a dear friend and a wonderful, talented person.
Please accept my sincere condolences.
Penny Culver
Judie Rose Akin
Friday, October 7, 2022
My Heart is grieved For You & Your Family ! May Our Lord Jesus Speak Peace to Your Weary Hearts , mind, soul & Knowing she Is in the presence of Our Lord Jesus ! To many years of Memories! Blessing of Peace Rusty !
Leslie Frensley
Friday, October 7, 2022
So sorry for your loss. ðŸ™ðŸ™ðŸ™for your family….
Audrey Madyun
Friday, October 7, 2022
Prayers to you. Her smile and enthusiasm had a great reach as she taught by both deed and word. Prayers from the Madyun family.
Cordelia Foster
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Judge Porter, this has really hurt me to read while strolling through Facebook. I was one of Mrs. Porter students and later her friend. I was so grateful that we finally reconnected a few years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family during this time.
Jim mayer
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers Jim& Diane Mayer & family
Terry & Arlene Parker
Thursday, October 6, 2022
We are so sorry for your loss and we are praying for the family. Mrs. Porter was the best English teacher ever. If it hadn't been for her, I wouldn't be where I am today. She really made a huge difference in my life. You all were so blessed to have her as a wife, mother, and grandmother. Rest in Love, Mrs. Porter.
Brenda Murray
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty: So sorry to learn of Ann's passing. Thinking of you and your family.
melinda mcnutt
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty - I was stunned upon getting this information. I am holding you and the family in prayer. As you know Ann and I were best of friends in high school after she moved to Benton. We had lost contact after college and only re-connected (I think on your instigation) from an early version of a school contact list, getting more re-connected after FaceBook made it easier. I loved spending the weekend at your house the year I came for the art festival that Ann so generously invited me to. I will cherish my memories of our days together in high school.
Steve and Sherrie Williams
Thursday, October 6, 2022
We are so sorry brother you are in our prayers.
Gina Dante
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty, thoughts and prayers. Thinking of you and your family. So sorry for your loss.
Marcia Cunningham
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Dear Rusty, I never met Ann that she didn’t greet u with a warm friendly happy smile. She was full of life and so talented. She will be so missed in church and in this community.
I send loving thoughts and prayers for your whole family.
Marcia Cunningham
Joe Grubbs
Thursday, October 6, 2022
My heart goes out to you and you will be in my prayers!
Phil Dunavan
Thursday, October 6, 2022
So sorry, Rusty. Wishing you peace.
Lin Millican Schuster
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Mrs. Porter was a big part of me becoming a teacher. She was always patient and kind. I am sad to hear of her passing, but hope her family finds peace in knowing she impacted this world for goodâ¤ï¸ I can still quote the Shakespeare passage as well as the prologue of Canterbury Tales!
Martha D.Manley
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty and family,may you keep your wife and mother ever before you by keeping the many wonderful memories of her in your heart. I completely understand what you’re feeling now. To say that “time will ease your pain†will not work. But you can once again smile as you recall your loving memories!
Carolyn Tanneberger
Thursday, October 6, 2022
What a very special lady sweet Ann was! I will treasure every memory of our times together. Good times and a lot of laughing! Praying God’s great comfort for all of her family and close friends. I know your hearts are breaking. â¤ï¸ðŸ™â¤ï¸ðŸ™
Philly Rains
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Condolences to Ann's family. She was a wonderful person and will be sorely missed in Phillips County.
Rose Seaton
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty,
I am so sad to hear this news. Ann was a very special person. She will be missed by many friends. You and your family are in my prayers.
Rose
Lynette (Burt) Murphy
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty and family:
I am so sad and sorry to learn of the loss of Ann. Such a talented and fun lady. I always so enjoyed being around her. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love to each of you.
L Ross
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Jed and family,
Sending my deepest condolences to the family. Mrs. Porter was a very nice and friendly person whose house I’d visit often. It was a joy to be in her class and to know her one on one. Praying for the family. ðŸ™ðŸ½ðŸ’•
Sallie Cline Langford
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Ann will be missed by so many. She was smart, funny and a great friend. I have so many memories of her.
My prayers will be with Rusty and her children. She loved you all so much.
Barbara King
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty… I’m so sorry to hear about Ann. Working with her in Junior Auxiliary, especially the Follies, brings back many fun memories. She was a wonderful person, and will be missed by all of us. May God keep you, Katie, Jed, Sarah…in his care now and the days ahead.
Sue Walker RAWLS
Thursday, October 6, 2022
So sad to hear of her passing my condolences to Rusty and family.
Ken Yancey
Thursday, October 6, 2022
Rusty and children, I am so sorry to here about Ann, a very talented and beautiful lady. I can still hear her sing in my mind “Climb every mountain.†She will be missed by many. She was a lovely lady.
Patrina Pruitt
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Hi Katie,
This really threw me for a loop. I am so sorry to hear of Mrs. Porter passing. I am definitely praying for you guys.
Becky Massey Wiener
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Dear Rusty & family. I am sorry to hear about your loved one. I can only imagine how much you all loved her & will miss her. I pray God will wrap his arms around you all & give you peace during this very difficult time. â¤ï¸ðŸ™ðŸ»Becky
Patsy Everhart
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Rusty, I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for u and your family.
Sissy & Kevin Smith
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Ann. She was such a talented & amazing woman, who gave so much of herself for others. She was so full of positivity & happiness. Our community was so lucky 🀠to benefit from her gifts. We will miss her very much. Sending much love and heartfelt condolences to her family. Thinking of you all. God bless. ♥ï¸
Laurie McLendon
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Rusty and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and family. So sorry .
Laurie Smith McLendon
Kay Clark Calderone
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Rusty and family,
I was so sorry to read about the passing of your sweet Ann. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
May you feel the comfort of the Lord during the difficult days ahead.
Kay Clark Calderone
Jennifer Holland Longo
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Mrs. Porter was an amazing teacher. Her love of literature and history was just one of the many things that made her class so enjoyable.My thoughts and prayers to her family.
Priscilla Parker Joiner
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
I am so very sorry for your loss. Many prayers for y’all in the upcoming days. I’m so thankful for Mrs. Ann pushing me in my accomplishments and her challenging me to be the best in all I do. Many prayers for you, Katie, Jed, and Sarah.
Carolyn Rawls Likou
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Manny and I are so very sorry for your loss. Wish we could be there for the service.
Don and Crystal Eastman
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Our honor and pleasure to have known and shared many good times with Ann. Our deepest sympathy and love to the family.
Herbert Evans
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Rusty and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss and my prayer is for God's peace and comfort for you at this time. I know God comforts those who mourn and who mourns for and with friends and family. Matthew 5:4 Herbert Evans
Gail Greene Kelley
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Condolences to the Porter family ...
Brent and Jo Alice Harris
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Rusty, we are so sorry. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Missy Ishmael
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Rusty and family,
I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious Ann. She will truly be missed . You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
CRYSTAL WILSON
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
To the family, I am so very saddened to read of Ann's passing. I know she will be sorely missed.
DENICE VON KANEL
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
I am so heartbroken to hear the news about Ann. I have such wonderful fun memories working with Ann and Rusty during all of the HLT Productions. The Porter family has a very special place in my heart. May the Lord wrap his arms around each of you now and during the days ahead. I will be praying for all of you.
Alan Cockrill and Lauren Patterson
Wednesday, October 5, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers.
Anything I can do to help let me know.
Alan