Anna Mae Shipman's Obituary
Anna Mae Shipman, beloved sister, aunt, and friend, passed from this life on May 14, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 83. Born on May 5, 1944, in Alton, Missouri, to George Miles and Clara Anna (Blissenbach) Shipman, Anna lived a life filled with laughter, loyalty, and love for the simple joys that made her world bright.
Anna dedicated more than 40 years of her life to Southwestern Bell—her one and only job. She began as a phone operator and, through hard work and determination, continued to grow and advance within the company. Her commitment was unwavering, and she took great pride in the work she did and the people she served.
Anna believed deeply that laughter was the best medicine, and she lived that belief every day. She was known for her quick wit, her warm smile, and her ability to make any room feel lighter just by being in it. She once drove a 1964 Impala with a cat figurine in the back window—when she hit the brakes, the cat’s eyes lit up red. It was the kind of quirky detail that fit her perfectly.
Family meant everything to Anna. She adored her nieces and nephews and loved taking them downtown Tulsa for the Christmas Parade, always with cookies in hand. Every year, her Christmas tree and her cherished Kinkade Christmas Village were up before Thanksgiving, filling her home with holiday magic long before the season officially began.
Anna had a passion for gardening, especially her TOMATOES. She planted more than 40 tomato plants and tended them with the same care she gave to the people she loved. She enjoyed being outdoors, working in her yard, and sharing the fruits of her labor with others.
Her circle of tight‑knit church friends brought her great joy. They gathered once a month to celebrate birthdays, laugh, and enjoy one another’s company. She also treasured her weekly calls with Peewee—conversations that stretched on for hours and were filled with stories, memories, and laughter.
One of Anna’s favorite traditions was her annual trip to Porter Peaches with her niece Pam. But the trip always began with a stop in Coweta at the Fish Shack, where she had to have pickled green tomatoes. Only then could they continue on to Porter, where she loaded up not just on peaches but also two or three watermelons. Homegrown watermelon and tomatoes were among her greatest delights.
Anna is survived by her niece, Pamela; her brother, George Shipman, and his wife, Clara, Donna Alford, Tom Shipman, and Karen Jones; her sister‑in‑law, Doris Shipman; and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory. She is preceded in death by her parents and other loved ones who now welcome her home.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Monday, May 25, 2026, at Floral Haven Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in the Floral Haven Rose Chapel.
Anna’s life was a testament to joy, generosity, and the beauty of everyday moments. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know her.
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