Anne Elizabeth Hewitt Schwiening, age 77, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 11, 1946, in Houston, Texas, to JoAnn and T.P. Hewitt.
Anne was a devoted wife to her husband Fred Schwiening III for 56 years and a loving mother to her two children, Shelley Kuhlmann (married to Eli Kuhlmann) and Mark Schwiening (married to Amy Schwiening). She cherished her role as “Granny Anne,” known affectionately not only to her grandchildren Cody Kuhlmann (married to Brittany Kuhlmann), Colton Kuhlmann (married to Amber Kuhlmann), and their children, but also within her AA family and local community.
During her lifetime, Anne initiated several impactful ministries and volunteer efforts. Following her own battle with breast cancer and treatment starting in August 1998, she founded “Rides of Hope,” a service providing transportation and support to cancer patients in need. When she encountered obstacles in obtaining medical assistance for patients, she established her own services to ensure they received necessary care.
Anne also started the “Bundt Cake Lady” ministry, a name lovingly given by her husband Fred, which began as a response to her radiation treatment schedule. After completing her treatments, she continued baking bundt cakes, generously sharing them with friends, family, local AA chapters, and countless others in the community. Her dedication to helping others extended beyond baking. She volunteered with the American Cancer Society, Home Hospice, and organized S.H.A.R.E. respite care at her church. Anne also founded the H.E.A.R.T. program, later entrusted to Gary Kennedy, to aid those in rehabilitation. Known for her open heart, she welcomed into her home numerous individuals in need, including family members like her father, foreign exchange students (Thomas, Burt, and Pasquel), a PA student named Tim, the “Nut Lady,” and others requiring support.
Anne’s dedication to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was deeply personal, influenced by her cousin, Jett Roberts struggles with alcoholism. Although not a member herself, she faithfully supported AA meetings and individuals in recovery, earning respect and admiration among the AA community and those she volunteered with.
Anne is survived by her husband Fred Schwiening III, her children Shelley Kuhlmann and Mark Schwiening, their spouses Eli Kuhlmann and Amy Schwiening, her grandchildren Cody Kuhlmann (married to Brittany Kuhlmann), their children, Landri and Peyton and Colton Kuhlmann (married to Amber Kuhlmann), their children, Cambrey, Paisley, Rhett, and Austin, and her grand dogs Bella and Bear (belonging to Mark and Amy Schwiening). Her generosity, compassion, and unwavering devotion to serving others leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew her.
A celebration of Anne’s life will be held at First Christian Church, Midland, Texas on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 11:30 AM. Prior to the funeral service, visitation will take place on Friday, August 2, 2024, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory in Midland, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to First Christian Church of Midland or the American Cancer Society, reflecting Anne’s lifelong dedication to helping others in need. Anne requested that everyone dress comfortably and wear their favorite colorful attire and flip flops to honor her joyful spirit.
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