Anna Marie Halmich
Anna Marie Halmich, 92, of Sullivan, MO, passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024 in Sullivan.
Born on January 5, 1932, on her family's farm in rural Washington County near Sullivan, Anna's early years were filled with the simple joys of country life. She carried these values of hard work and community throughout her life.
Anna's dedication to education was evident from her early days, having attended the country school at Reedville before moving on to Sullivan High School, where she graduated in 1950. Her passion for learning and teaching took her to college in Springfield and eventually to St. Louis, where she fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. Anna's teaching career began at Reedville, teaching in the one-room schoolhouse with grades 1-8. She then taught at Seminary School before finding her home at Spring Bluff School, where she devoted 37 years to educating young minds. Even in retirement, Anna continued to substitute teach and tutor, living by her motto, "No child left behind."
On June 20, 1952, Anna married the love of her life, Grant Halmich. Their partnership was one of mutual respect and shared endeavors, including welcoming their son Brent into the world. Together, Anna and Grant cultivated a life filled with love, hard work, and dedication to their farm. Anna's joy in life's simple pleasures was evident in the way she cared for her garden and took pride in brush hogging the fields. The couple also shared a love for fishing, often spending quiet hours together by the water.
Anna's interests extended beyond her family and profession. She was an active member of New Testament Baptist Church, where she served and helped cook at Vacation Bible School, enriching the lives of many children beyond her classroom. Her social life was filled with laughter and friendly competition, as she and Grant enjoyed late nights playing Pinochle and Ping Pong with friends in their younger years.
The Spring Bluff School Library stands as a testament to Anna's dedication, having been named in her honor—a symbol of her enduring influence and the countless lives she touched through her teaching. Anna's legacy is one of nurturing and guiding countless students, instilling in them the values of education and personal growth.
Anna is survived by her son, Brent Halmich and wife, Vicky of Sullivan, MO; three grandchildren: Jessica Jackson, and husband, Mitch, Stacy Halmich, and Evan Halmich all of Sullivan; 5 great-grandchildren: Kohl & Tanner Morris, Riley Frosch, Tanner Jackson & Dane Jackson, and fiancée Kearstin Hofstetter; one brother, Dean Crow and wife, Alice of Sullivan; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Grant; her parents, James and Hilda Crow; two brothers, Don Crow and infant brother, Claude Crow; and a sister, Minnie Betke.
Services will be 11:00 AM, Friday, February 2, 2024, at New Testament Baptist Church in Sullivan with Pastor Dave Wright officiating. Interment will follow at Crow Cemetery.
Visitation will be 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Thursday, February 1, 2024, at Spring Bluff School in Sullivan, MO. The family will receive friends from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Friday at New Testament Baptist Church prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be made in Anna’s memory to Spring Bluff School for the benefit of the library.
Friends may share condolences online with Anna’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.