Life & Legacy of Anne Ruth Armour

The Beginning

Anne Ruth Armour was born on July 23, 1924, in Montgomery, Alabama, to James and Polly Anne Nettles. She was introduced to God at an early age, and her faith remained steadfast throughout her entire life. Anne completed her early education at Booker T. Washington Grammar School before earning her GED. Her passion for learning continued as she pursued studies in Nursing and Health Care and Cosmetology to further her professional skills.

A woman of deep faith, Anne became a devoted member of Normal  Park Baptist Church and later, Bellevue Baptist Church  where she raised her children with a strong sense of spirituality.

The Hard Worker

Anne’s work ethic was extraordinary. She began her career at Union Carbide and later worked at Weiss Memorial Hospital. In addition to her professional roles, Anne was a self-made businesswoman, excelling in multiple ventures. From hair care and beauty services to real estate, catering, and even Tupperware sales, Anne’s entrepreneurial spirit knew no bounds. She became known for her determination, successfully navigating and thriving in each field she ventured into.

Despite facing a severe injury that led to an early retirement, Anne’s drive and determination never wavered. She continued working as a self-employed strategic businesswoman, always finding ways to stay active and engaged.

Relationships

Anne married twice in her lifetime—first to Johnny Jarrett and later to Sherman Armour. Through both marriages, Anne remained a constant pillar of strength and love for her family. She was a devoted mother to eight children, raising them with compassion, discipline, and a deep sense of faith. Her family was her greatest joy, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments.

She is survived by her eight children, six grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. Her family represents five generations, each of them touched by her unwavering love and support.

A Life Well Lived

Anne was a woman of many interests and simple joys. She especially loved shopping and visiting garage sales—always on the lookout for a great find or a hidden treasure. Beyond her eye for bargains, she had a deep passion for gardening. Often, she tended to as many as three gardens during the summer months. For many years, she planted a large vegetable garden and was an active member of Calumet Park’s community garden on Vermont Avenue.

Well into her 80s, she continued to care for her lawn, cutting her own grass and using a snow blower to clear the sidewalk in front of her home. Even in her 90s, she completed daily “Sit and Be Fit” exercises.

Anne had a sly sense of humor and a quick wit that never failed to make those around her laugh. She was a fierce protector of her family, always standing by them with strength and resolve. 

In recognition of her remarkable life, Anne was honored with a Special Lifetime Achievement Award on her 100th birthday by the Mayor and other dignitaries of Calumet Park, Illinois.

The Legacy

On Saturday, August 9th, 2025, Anne Ruth Armour passed away peacefully in her home at the age of 101. Her light will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew her. Anne’s legacy is one of love, strength, faith, and resilience. She will be dearly missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The Loving Family

She was proceeded in death by her sister; Margaret Davis, Son; James Jarrett, daughter; Pamela Shockley, Son-in-law; JD, and one grandson; James Walton Jr

She leaves a great legacy to cherish her memory: six daughters, Anny Jarrett, Dorothy Jarret, Robin Jarrett, Cheryl Armour Frye (Darryl), and Sheila Armour; one daughter-in-law, Suzette Jarrett, one God daughter; Penelope Teaser, six grandchildren; Amy Walton, Patrick Jarrett, La Shawn Walton Campbell (Warren), Swantice Walton, Darius Frye, Destiny Frye, ten great grandchildren; Jarrett Walton (Taniya), Hauzia Walton, Jordan Walton, Breanna Walton Knox, Katrice Jarrett, Brandon Jarrett, Jazmine Jarrett, Ashley Walton, KeMarrius Walton, Wes Armour Frye; seven great-great grandchildren: Janelle Walton, Harper Walton, JaiAnna Walton, Aniyah Walton, Audrey Walton, Auria Walton, Ashilynn Walton; and ten nieces/nephews: Jeanie Foster, La Sunya Jackson (Calvin), Markisha Jackson, Angela Jackson, Marcus Jackson, Calvin Mitchell Jr., Diamond Reynolds, Angelo Baker, Ni’ Omi Jackson, Cash Jackson; and a host of cousins, family, friends, supportive neighbors, and community.

Anne's Funeral Service:

Monday, August 18

Bellevue Baptist Church

10700 S. Emerald Avenue

Chicago, IL

Prepast: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Visitation: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Funeral Service: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM