SPEARS, Dr. Ann Saywell

Dr. Ann Saywell Spears, 79, of Rome, GA passed away on June 29, 2022.

Dr. Spears was born to the late Ernest John Saywell, Jr. and Lillian Eberhardt Saywell of Fort Valley, GA on February 1, 1943. She graduated with top honors from Berry College in 1967 with two young girls in tow. She was a prominent educator with Rome City Schools for over 30 years, serving as principal of Rome Middle School before retiring. Focused on a successful career, she was even more dedicated to her family, serving in many volunteer roles such as Girl Scout leader and Band Parent, organizing tour groups to Europe so her children had travel opportunities, and providing valuable learning experiences as they grew up. Upon retiring, Dr. Spears remained involved with Berry College, mentoring Gate of Opportunity Scholarship recipients and establishing an annual scholarship for education majors. She supported many other programs as well.

Her maternal and paternal grandfathers worked together in the 1920s to establish and lead the Episcopal church in Fort Valley, GA. She would many years later become an active member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church of Rome.

She is survived by her two daughters, two grandchildren, and a great granddaughter. The family extends special thanks to these caregivers, Sabrina Holsey, Michelle Long, Darlene Chambers, Delecia Pollard, Angela Niles, Naralene Barrett, and other caring individuals from The Spires at Berry College. The family is also grateful to Nurse Pam Estes with Heyman Hospice Care. In addition, Jacquelyn Lovingood and Sherri Walker were special people in Dr. Spears’s life.

,Q OLHX RI ÀRZHUV WKH Idpily kindly requests that memorial contributions may be made to the Ann S. Spears Expendable Scholarship at Berry College.

A memorial service planned for a later date.