Annie Robbins Wilson – Good ol’ fresh country air

Annie Robbins Wilson was born on November 17, 1908, in the rural community of Menifee County, Kentucky. Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian foothills, her childhood home at Leatherwood was a place of simple living, shaped by the rhythms of the land. She was the daughter of John M. Robbins and Izane Hatton, and her early life, as evidenced by the 1910, 1920, and 1930 census records, was deeply rooted in this close-knit Kentucky community.

In April 1935, Annie was living in rural Woodford County, Kentucky. Later that same year, on November 29th, she married Ollie Esko Wilson in Montgomery County, Kentucky, marking a significant transition in her life. The couple's journey took them northward, and by 1940, they had settled in South Moline, Rock Island, Illinois.

Annie and Ollie raised three children: Robert, Johnny, and April Mae. Tragically, April Mae passed away at a young age, a loss that undoubtedly left a lasting impact on Annie. The 1950 census shows the family still residing in Moline, Illinois.

In 1957, Annie faced another profound loss with the death of her husband, Ollie, back in Menifee County, Kentucky. This event likely prompted her move to Indiana, though the exact year remains uncertain.

In her later years, Annie lived in Kokomo, Indiana, where she became a familiar figure to her family. Despite her reserved nature, she was known for her creative pursuits, particularly quilting, and shared this passion with her sister, Hazel. Annie's later years in Kokomo were marked by increasing frailty, especially during her time at Terrace Towers Apartments. Family members fondly remember visiting her, assisting with errands and groceries, and providing companionship. These visits offered glimpses into her quiet strength and the enduring bonds of family.

Annie faced physical challenges, including scoliosis, which caused a noticeable hump on her back, and a chronic lung disease that affected her breathing. These health issues contributed to her quiet and somewhat withdrawn presence, but they also highlighted her quiet strength and resilience.

Annie Robbins Wilson passed away on November 16, 1984, just one day shy of her 76th birthday. She was laid to rest at Sunset Memory Gardens in Kokomo, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy of quiet fortitude and the memory of her gentle, creative spirit.

John, Izane, and their daughters Hazel, Emma, and Anna Robbins — The Robbins family: John M. Robbins and Izane Hatton with daughters Hazel, Emma, and Annie (far right), taken in the hills of Kentucky.

April May Wilson as an infant — Aunt Annie’s only daughter, April May Wilson. She passed away at just 15 months old, but remains forever cherished.

Annie standing inside near the door — Aunt Annie in her everyday dress—graceful, quiet, and steady as ever. Likely taken when she lived at Terrace Towers in Kokomo, Indiana.

Wilson family at funeral service, 1957 — Robert, Annie, and Johnny Wilson paying final respects at Ollie’s funeral, October 1957. A solemn family moment, tenderly remembered.

Aunt Annie sitting in later years — A soft moment in her later years. Aunt Annie always wore simple dresses and carried herself with quiet dignity.

Unknown baby possibly family — Unidentified baby. Possibly a member of the extended family—this photo remains a mystery in Aunt Annie’s collection.

Keepsake Corner

This little sewing box belonged to Aunt Annie—filled with thread, needles, and memories. Though her hands are still now, these small tools remind us of the quiet strength stitched into every hem, every patch, every life she touched.

Aunt Annie's closed sewing basket on quilt — Aunt Annie’s sewing basket, tucked away on a handmade quilt—holding quiet stories in every thread and spool.

Aunt Annie's sewing box open with spools and tools — Her sewing box, lined in soft satin and filled with thread in every shade—just as she left it.

Sewing tools from Aunt Annie's sewing box — Needles, spools, a pincushion wheel—well-worn and well-loved, scattered across a patchwork quilt.