Anne Strawn Sorrels

ANNE STRAWN SORRELS, 77 passed away Tuesday, June 5, 2016 after a battle with cancer. She was born May 8, 1939, to the late Jimmy and Becky Strawn. Anne was predeceased by her oldest son, R. Barry Sorrells Jr. and her sister, Jane Strawn Hamm. Anne is survived by her daughter, Caroline Sorrells McGill; her son, Kent Sorrells (Missy); her brother, Jim Strawn (Libby) and four beloved grandchildren, Lauren and Morgan McGill and Logan and Benjamin Sorrells. Anne graduated from Little Rock High School in 1957 where she was a cheerleader and homecoming queen, and where she formed a bond with what would become many lifelong friends. She attended Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College). Anne and her former husband, Dr. R. Barry Sorrells, raised their three children together in pursuit of great adventures encompassing extensive travel, backpacking, skiing, farming and flying. She had the first windsurfer in the state of Arkansas and parasailed in Mexico as recently as March. Anne instilled a legacy of love for Colorado in her family, where she continued to travel regularly though the years. She had a formidable gift for reading, gardening and humor. Anne was a great encourager and cheerleader for friends from all walks of life. She was generous with her support and time, especially with those most in need. Her friends most commonly refer to her as "special" and "kind," as she possessed unique qualities seen in few. Anne was a picture of grace in her final months, continuing to set an example for others to follow in how to deal with adversity with a smile and a sense of humor, both of which endured through the very end. Her children were her passion and they wish to thank Anne's caregivers who so selflessly provided her with comfort and care, as well as her niece Becky Hamm who lifted her spirits greatly. Anne will be greatly missed but will forever remain a vibrant force and inspiration for those she loved. In lieu of flowers, we ask that anyone wishing to honor Anne do so through a donation to Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (turpentinecreek.org), Our House (ourhouseshelter.org) or to a charity of your choice. Online guestbook at www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.