Annelle Sealy (born McCollister)
Personal
Gender: Female
Date of Birth: January 3, 1947
Date of Death: August 12, 2012
Death Place: Pearland, TX
Annelle McCollister Sealy
Annelle McCollister Sealy entered this earthly life on January 3, 1947. She entered the very presence of our Lord on August 12, 2012, at the age of 65. Her beloved parents, L. D. and Jayne McCollister, preceded her in death. Shortly afterward, while a student at LSU and a young teacher, she ensured that she and her younger brothers were able to stay together as a family. Her remarkable sacrifices at such a young age only foreshadowed what a remarkable woman she would become.
Soon the Rev. J. Garland and June McKee became “honorary parents” to her, and they remain a central presence in her family. In 1975 she met the love of her life, Don Sealy of Pearland, who survives her. She and Don thoroughly enjoyed their lives together as sweethearts, business partners, and co-laborers for Christ.
Annelle is also survived by her children Kristi Sealy Miller, Gene Sealy, and Beverly Sealy Baker and their respective spouses, Nick Miller, Michelle Sealy, and Britt Baker, all of Pearland. She delighted in her children as well as her grandchildren: Thomas Miller, Kyle Sealy, Trevor Sealy, Brittany Baker, Brandon Baker, and to be born in December Kinsleigh Anne Miller. Also surviving Annelle are her brothers and their respective spouses: L. D. (Mackie) and Deborah McCollister; and David and Lisa McCollister; as well as nephews and nieces: Luke and Daniel McCollister, Brian McCollister, and Ashleigh Cormier.
Annelle was an exemplary elementary teacher for 27 years, earning such awards as Outstanding Young Educator in Baton Rouge and Teacher of the Year at C. J. Harris Elementary in Pearland. In semi-retirement, she enthusiastically worked as Mentor for new teachers in Pearland ISD. In addition, she was an outstanding piano teacher, and church pianist and organist for many years.
Most of all, we celebrate Annelle’s life as “the strongest Christian woman we have known,” to quote many in recent days. She possessed eternal optimism, a deep love for the Scriptures, and a steadfast faith in her Lord Jesus Christ. For her family and the countless children whose lives she touched, we learned from a woman who loved God and trusted Him in all things. Even as we understandably mourn her passing, we celebrate in knowing that we will see her again, and we recall her favorite verse: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).
The service celebrating Annelle’s life was held at 10:00am Friday, August 17, at Shadycrest Baptist Church, 3017 Yost Blvd., in Pearland 77581. Interment followed at South Park Cemetery in Pearland. Those honored to serve as pallbearers were Brandon Baker, Brian McCollister, Daniel McCollister, Kyle Sealy, Luke McCollister, and Trevor Sealy.
In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to St. Jude’s Research Hospital or your favorite charity.
Published on yourpearlandnews.com from August 15 to August 28, 2012
