Kappes, Mary Anne Whitmore

of Phoenix passed away peacefully on September 12, 2013 at the age of 96. Anne spent many tireless years seeking justice for Phoenix citizens as a public defender for the Maricopa County PD’s office. Anne moved to Phoenix from Ohio in 1920 at the age of 3 with her parents, Thomas and Doris Kappes. Anne attended schools near her downtown home: Kenilworth Grade School, Phoenix Union High School and Phoenix College. After college, Anne entered the US Navy where she served during World War II. After her honorable discharge, she enrolled in the University of Arizona where she graduated from the U of A College of Law in May of 1953. After passing the bar exam and working in private practice for several years, in the 1960’s, Anne went on to work for the Maricopa County Public Defender’s office . For some time, she was the only female attorney as well as the only appellate attorney in the PD’s office. Anne is well remembered for her competency and tenacity as a lawyer, as well as fighting hard for a seat at the "daily noon time" card game at the court library. Anne worked at the Public Defender’s office until her retirement in the 1980’s. Anne continued to live in downtown Phoenix and stayed very active in the community. She was involved for decades with several organizations, including Altrusa International, The Heard Museum Guild, The American Women Lawyers Association, and the VNSA. A memorial reception will be held on Saturday March 1st, 2014 at the Trinity Cathedral located at 100 W. Roosevelt, Phoenix, AZ 85003. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Altrusa International.