Ann Ruth Minton

Funeral services for Mrs. Ann Ruth Minton will be conducted from the sanctuary of First Pentecostal Church in Jackson on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in the Lakewood South Memorial Park in Jackson. Mrs. Minton, age 87, entered into the eternal rest of her Lord at the Highland Home Health Care Center in Ridgeland on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

The family will receive friends Monday evening, October 27, 2025, from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at First Pentecostal Church, Jackson. Visitation will resume Tuesday morning at 10:00 am until the hour of service at 11:00 am.

Ann Ruth Minton was born on June 23, 1938, in Magee, Mississippi, to Lawrence Colon and Ola Louise Dilmore Floyd. Ann was a remarkable individual whose life exemplified determination, resilience, and a deep commitment to her family and community. A graduate of Central High School in Jackson, she was active in the Humanity-Youth (H-Y) Club and was awarded the Trophy Cup in recognition of the student most exemplifying the ideals of the organization. 

Despite facing significant physical challenges resulting from a debilitating stroke at the age of 35, Ann showcased an extraordinary spirit. Later in life, she returned to her studies and proudly earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a focus on Accounting from Mississippi College in 1979. Her academic achievement not only reflected her tenacity but also her unwavering belief in the power of education.

Ann's dedication extended well beyond her educational pursuits; she was a passionate volunteer who devoted her time to various causes. She led the Stroke Club, contributed to the American Heart Association by participating in a television commercial, and was a nursing home volunteer at one time. Additionally, Ann played a vital role in assisting others during tax season with the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Her endearing smile earned her the affectionate nickname “Smiley,” a nod to her positive outlook on life despite her challenges.

Family was the cornerstone of Ann's existence. She was a doting grandmother, with her grandson Joseph being the apple of her eye, and the arrival of her great-grandchildren brought her immense joy, solidifying her legacy as a loving and nurturing matriarch. She cherished her husband, Joseph Minton, whom she married in 1961, along with their daughter Sherri and sons-in-law. Their home in Nacogdoches, Texas, and later in Jackson, Mississippi, was a sanctuary of love, laughter, and faith.

Ann was devoted to her faith and found solace and strength in her relationship with her Lord Jesus Christ. She attended First Pentecostal Church since its early days at 710 South President Street and actively participated in teaching Sunday school for many years. Her passion for children was evident; she and her husband embraced the role of substitute grandparents to numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces. Ann loved hosting children for week-long visits, imparting her values and upbringing through shared moments and learned lessons. Her love for teaching extended to her neighborhood, where she shared the Good News of Jesus, while lovingly providing snacks for her young visitors.

Committed to hiding the Word of God in her heart, Ann delighted in studying the scriptures and made it a personal goal to read her Bible through annually. She took great joy in memorizing entire chapters from Psalms, often quoting them to inspire and uplift those around her.

Ann Ruth Minton leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and faith that will always be remembered by her family and friends. She embodied the greatest of life’s lessons which included: Persevere-Never Give Up, Live Life to the Fullest, Help Others, Invest in your family and Put God First.

Her family takes great joy in knowing that Ann is now dancing her heart out for Jesus, making up for all the times she wanted to, but couldn’t.

Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Colon and Ola Floyd; her husband, Joe Minton; her 2nd mother, Mary Saucier Haggard Floyd; her brother, Larry Haggard, and her son-in-law, Lloyd Ellis.

Her memory will forever be cherished by her daughter, Sherri Cox (Robert) of Bolton, and her sister, Louise Roark of Nacogdoches, TX. The legacy of their Grammy will also live on through her grandson, Joseph Ellis (Britny); her great-grandchildren, Greyson, AnnaGrace, and Ellakate Ellis; her step-granddaughter, Jennifer Brewer (Wayland); great-granddaughter, Bailey Brewer; her step-grandson, Ben Pendarvis (Sarah), and great-grandchildren, Aubrey, Miles, and Juniper Pendarvis. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.