Annie L. Birdsong

Annie Lue Birdsong, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend was born on February 1, 1931, in Rome, Georgia, to the late Theodore and Carrie Mae Austin.

In 1959, Annie and her family moved to Urbancrest, Ohio, eventually settling in Columbus, where they purchased their first home on North 6th Street. A woman of strength, compassion, and unwavering determination, Annie began working early in life as a nurse aide at Dr’s. North and Grant Hospital, also preparing meals according to dietary needs—always with care and love.

In 1980, Annie relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where she worked at Charter Peachford Rehab & Detox Hospital. During her time there, she had the opportunity to care for several celebrities, always treating each patient with the same dignity and kindness. Known for her impeccable wardrobe and stylish flair, Annie opened a boutique at the flea market on Columbia Drive in Decatur, GA, where she sold Louis bags and rhinestone headwear gear—creating a fashion trend that swept through Decatur.

After the passing of her beloved husband, Earnest Birdsong, Annie returned to Ohio. Before retiring, she continued her legacy of care by providing childcare in her community. She was also a phenomenal cook—famous for making the best fried chicken and the most delicious sweet potato pies (yes, even better than Patti Pies!).

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Annie worshiped at Mt. Ephraim Baptist Church while living in Georgia. In Columbus, she was a devoted member of A Better Way of Life Ministries and Triumphant Life Center (TLC). She was also an active participant in the women’s group From1Woman2Another.

Annie was preceded in death by her husband, Earnest Birdsong; her daughters Shirley Lanesa Birdsong and Dollie Birdsong Thurman Holt; and her youngest son, Dwayne Anthony Birdsong.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and cherished memories with her four sons: Earnest Michael Birdsong (Gwendolyn) of Lithonia, GA; Terry Birdsong of Atlanta, GA; Craig Birdsong (Angie) of Norcross, GA; and Ricky Birdsong of Columbus, OH. She is also survived by her dear sister Vera Mathis of Rome, GA; bonus children, Kelly Glass, Amanda Sweeney, and Yolanda Hunt; 17 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; many great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. Annie also held a special place in her heart for the St. Stephen’s Community House, which brought her great joy. Annie Lue Birdsong’s life was a shining example of resilience, faith, style, and unconditional love. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know and love her. Annie favorite motto “ I am trying to make 100, 99 ½ won’t do”