Corsicana - Ann was born to Coymae and Chester Prater, alongside her big brother Jamie, on July 21, 1947, at Hillcrest Hospital in Waco, Texas. In Ann's own words: "I was named by my mom who loved me and made lots of things possible, but I was adored by my daddy."

Growing up in Dawson, Texas, Ann graduated from Dawson public schools in 1965. Her early years were filled with school spirit; she played basketball, performed in school musicals, and served as a majorette. Remarkably, Ann became the Dawson Bulldog's mascot at the age of 2, a tradition that continued when their beloved family bulldog, Beethoven, eventually took over that role. Ann later matriculated at Navarro College and Sam Houston State University, earning her Bachelor's degree in Education in 1968.

Teaching was not just a career for Ann; it was a divine calling. She began her journey in the fall of 1968 as a third-grade teacher at Navasota Elementary. Over a distinguished career spanning decades, Ann's excellence was recognized with numerous honors, including:

- 1998 Quality Teacher of the Year

- 1998 Golden Apple Award

- 2002 Outstanding Educator

- 2002 Mark C. Culwell Award (Corsicana ISD's highest elementary teaching honor)

- 2005 CEF Distinguished Teacher of the Year

She retired from Corsicana ISD after 45 years of teaching but could never truly leave the classroom. She continued to serve as a substitute teacher in Corsicana and Blooming Grove until 2024, even striving to return to her students during her later illnesses. Ann adored her students beyond measure and found her closest, most admired friends among her fellow educators. She was also a dedicated member of the Texas State Teachers Association, where she worked to shape the curriculum and policies for future generations.

Ann was a pillar of the Lone Star Cowboy Church of Navarro County in Corsicana, led by her dear friend, Pastor Charky Marquis. She loved the Lord with all her heart and felt a deep connection to the worship services, often remarking that the songs felt "sung just for her." The church community provided her with immense strength and fellowship through both joyful and difficult times.

A voracious reader and lover of literature, Ann possessed a passion she proudly passed on to her granddaughter, Aubrey. She could easily finish a book a week, finding escape and peace within the written word.

Above all her accolades, Ann most wanted to be known for her unwavering faith, the love for her children and her heart for others. Her infectious smile would light up a room. She lived to be a light for her students and a witness to God's love, hoping that every person she met felt seen, valued, and encouraged.

Ann was survived by many who loved and adored her.

Services will be held on March 28th at 11 am Lone Star Cowboy Church of Corsicana, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name, Ann G. Prater Lewis, to Agape Christian Academy. To further the love of education for future generations.