Joanna Funney

Ms. Joanna Alston Funney, affectionately known as Ms. Anna, was born on April 1, 1922, in Horry County, South Carolina, to the late Rebecca Alston and Harrison Myers. She peacefully transitioned from labor to reward on March 26, 2026, at the blessed age of 103, leaving a legacy of faith, strength, and perseverance. 

Raised on McDowell Shortcut in the Burgess community of Myrtle Beach. Ms. Anna learned the value of hard work and determination at an early age. She attended Heaven Gate School and later continued her education in the Burgess Community, walking miles to and from school five days a week, through rain, wind, and cold demonstrating a resilience that would define her entire life. 

As a young woman, Ms. Anna entered the workforce out of necessity, working in hotels, motels, and kitchens as a helper. She later became a trusted live-in babysitter and nanny, caring for others with the same love and devotion she carried throughout her life. She was a dedicated employee for many years at the Myrtle Beach Pavilion, where her strong work ethic and warm spirit touched many. 

In 1942, Ms. Anna was united in holy matrimony to her beloved husband and relocated to Florida. Later, she returned to Myrtle Beach to care for her ailing mother, faithfully serving as her caregiver until her mother’s passing, a true reflection of her selfless and loving heart. 

At an early age, seeking guidance and a deeper relationship with God, Ms. Anna joined Salem Missionary Baptist Church in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. There, she accepted the Lord as her Savior and was baptized, marking the beginning of a lifelong walk of faith. She remained a devoted and faithful member, known for her unwavering commitment. She joyfully served on the choir and faithfully carried out her duties as an usher. She was also an active and proud member of Kaaba No. 127 and Blooming Rose Tent No. 29. 

Ms. Anna’s love for her church was the heartbeat of her life. It was not just a place she attended; it was her home, her refuge, and her joy. She loved her church family deeply and was devoted to them in both word and deed. Whether attending Sunday service, lifting her voice in the choir, or simply offering a kind word and warm smile, Ms. Anna poured herself into the life of the church. She believed in the power of fellowship and found strength in being among God’s people. 

Even at 103 years young, Ms. Anna remained a radiant presence in the sanctuary, gracefully dressed in her beautiful suits and signature three-inch heels. Though she often used a cane, when it was time to give her offering, she would set it aside and make her way forward with joy, moving, dancing, and praising with a strength and vigor that inspired all who witnessed it. It reflected the joy she carried in her heart and the strength she drew from her faith. 

Her presence was a constant source of encouragement, and her faithfulness inspired generations. Even in her later years, she remained committed, attending as long as her body would allow, demonstrating a steadfast love for the Lord and His house. As it is written in Psalm 122: 1, “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord.” That gladness lived in Ms. Anna all her days. She lived her life as a testament to God’s sustaining power. 

The Bible reminds us in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” Truly, Ms. Anna lived these words each day of her life. 

She leaves to cherish her precious memories of a loving family, Nieces, Nephews, extended family, and dear friends whose lives she touched with her kindness, wisdom, and enduring faith. 

Though she is no longer with us in body, her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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