Annabelle Lou Shooks, affectionately known as Ann to her friends and family, was born on July 23, 1925, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to her parents, Benjamin and Elizabeth Hertel. After a rich and fulfilling life, she returned to her Savior on October 3, 2024, in Grand Rapids.

Ann was a beacon of light and love through her 99 years, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and wisdom that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Ann married Percy John Shooks and they enjoyed over 72 years of marriage. Ann and John had three children, Michael, Scott, and Elizabeth. Ann was predeceased by her parents, sister, husband, John, and infant son Scott.

Ann attended Calvin College and received a degree in education. She began her career as an elementary school teacher and in later years she worked as a substitute teacher touching the lives of many students. She also established a weekly school Bible club that met for many years.

Ann was an active member of Calvin Christian Reformed Church. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life and she served the church in various leadership roles, taught Bible school, and was instrumental in sponsoring refugee families. Ann's Christian service reflected her deep and abiding love for others and her desire to make the world a better place.

Ann loved her family and she was a devoted, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt. She was a great supporter of her granddaughters and through the years she and John attended many of their sports and school events. She continued to foster strong bonds with her son, Michael, daughter, Elizabeth and Jeff Riemersma, and granddaughters Jamie (Nick) Lauters, and Kristen (Alex) Smith. Her family was a source of great joy, and she loved seeing pictures and hearing stories about her great-grandchildren, Olivia, Ethan, and Eve Lauters.

Ann served as a volunteer at the Global Gifts shop for many years. Ann and John explored the world extensively in their retirement creating many memories from their travels. They enjoyed winters spent in Florida with dear friends and hosted many family gatherings in Grand Haven.

Ann will be remembered for her friendly demeanor, her wise counsel, and loving nature. She had a gift for making those around her feel valued, and her absence will be deeply felt by her family and friends. She was a special blessing to her fellow residence and the staff at Raybrook Manor in her last years. Her family is especially grateful to the staff at Raybrook and Faith Hospice for making her final days peaceful.

The family will be having a private celebration of life service at a later date. Donations in Ann's name can be made to Faith Hospice, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Dr. SW., Byron Center, MI, 49315.