Ann French Echols, 90, one of Sanford's most beloved first grade teachers, went to be with her Lord and Savior on October 6, 2018. Echols taught most of her 30 years at Pinecrest Elementary School. In 1972, she was selected Seminole County Teacher of the Year.

After graduating from Valdosta State College in 1949, Echols moved to Sanford, Florida where she met Kenneth Haywood Echols. Ann and Kenneth were married over 50 years, until Kenneth passed away in 2005.

Echols leaves behind daughter Melissa Reeder (David), and Frances Lundquist (Robert). She was a loving "Granny" to; Kristen Ann Lundquist Mauri (Diego), Robert Brett Lundquist, Sarah Sleeter Magzimof (Shai), and Trey Wilson Lundquist. Great grandchildren include; Nicolas Martin Mauri, Giselle Aria Mauri, Shlomo Michael Magzimof, and Gefen Rivka Magzimof.

Family and friends will gather for a graveside service at Evergreen on Hway 46A in Sanford on Monday October 22, at 11:00 am.