Miss Ann Memorial Book

Please add an entry to the Ann Taylor Memorial Book.

Mike & Julie Sisson	Conyers	GA	I remember the first year Nikki went to Camp Dixie. You were there, Ann, cheerful, efficient, and ready to welcome all the campers. Nikki immediately felt welcome and at home. We had gone to a camp fair at Northpoint Mall, and Camp Dixie struck us immediately as the camp that would benefit our child most. Ann, you are truly one of God's special children. We now know your purpose was Dixie and the thousands of children's lives you touched will be your legacy. It will live on through your special friend and co-worker Rhonda and all the children who will miss you so dearly. God bless you as you take your seat near him in heaven. Those whose lives you have touched, including our daughter's, will never forget you and Dixie will live on in your memory, continuing to touch lives and mold young people into outstanding adults. Love, Mike & Julie Sisson
Debbie Owens	Locust Grove	GA	I was saddened to learn about the sudden passing of Miss Ann. She was such a sweet lady. My thoughts and prayers are with her Friends and Family. I am sure she is watching down from heaven above. Sincerely, Debbie Owens
wes swanson	snellville	GA	i love you miss ann.i will miss you.you will always be in my heart
Dylan Beagle	Snellville	GA	Hey everyone, I've know Ms. Ann for 10 years. Every time I'm at Camp it feels like home, and when i leave I dream about going back to camp. That was a place where alot of my memories come from. She was such and amazing person , to dedicate her life for us. Each year i go there are such new and different people, but some how it always feels as if we were born together before we leave. To make such an impact in a child's life in that way is truley amazing. I thank her forever for allowing me to come and be with her, Rhonda, and Jason. They are more my neaxt family than anyone i know. Please pray for Rhonda and Jason, because she had a mayjor impact in there life. I thank God that I had a chance to have met and got close to her. Always remember that she loved you and she loved Camp Dixie. Please never forget that. I love you Ms. Ann. Dylan Beagle
Zack Stockbridge	Arlington Heights	IL	The LORD has given and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the Name of the LORD! Miss Ann is home now everybody! The Bible says that there "is a tim to mourn," so dont hold back the tears (I havent). But also do not despair; Miss Ann is in Heaven now, where life is TRULY life! I'll be doing everything I can to be at the Memorial. Jen and I's prayers are with you.
Paul Springer	Atlanta	GA	Thanks for the great memories over the last 10 years. My children were different and much better after each visit to Camp Dixie. She did that for hundreds of children, and what better legacy can there be? We all miss Miss Ann, but we look forward to continuing her legacy.
Morgan Bruner	Maitland	FL	Ms. Ann was a lady with a whole lotta spunk. I remember her playing kick ball with us, and doing all of the same activities that we did. She was a woman that cared so much for her dixie family and showed it everyday while children were at camp. She was so much fun to be around and one of the funniest people I have ever known. She made sure that everyone was having fun and if someone was down she would figure out the perfect way to life there spirits. The first year I was at camp (7 years ago) I was so nervous, because I didn't know anyone. Ms. Ann took me right under her wing and made me feel as if I had known her for years. I remember her doing morning watch with Miss Rhonda's cabin every morning and having her tell her life stories. -When Ms. Ann found out about my dad's passing away she had the perfect words to say to me that made me feel so comforted.-Ms. Ann will be greatly missed by all at Dixie. I will love you always and forever Ms. Ann ~When someone you love passes away, you gain the most amazing angel!~ Love, Morgan Bruner
Nikki Sisson	Conyers	GA	I don't know where to start......When my mom started to say,"Miss Ann", I just started crying. I also got the church to put her name in Remember In Your Prayers. She was so much fun at camp. I cry just thinking about it. I am going to miss her coming around and inspecting our cabin, and just participating in some of our events. I will miss her so much, and I think we all will.
Nicola Smeaton	Spartanburg	SC	There are many things to say about Miss Ann, I don’t' know where to start. She amazed me almost on a daily basis. She was always there for you, if you sent her an e-mail she would take notes on what you had to say and write the most appropriate e-mail back, e-mailing her was more like correspondence via "snail mail". She was always up for a laugh, but never up for shopping, I will always remember trying to get her to come, and the answer was always no. She saw no reason to leave camp, she had everything there, the view, the people she loved and she always had amazing food put before her at every meal (that she ate). Miss Ann, without knowing it helped me mature in my first year at camp than I could of dreamt of, I became a different person, a better person. For this I shall always be in debt to her. Miss Ann, I love you !
Henry Hene	Marietta	GA	To The Dixie Family, From the Hene's that attended Dixie in the 1970's and Caroline Hene that attended in the 2000's, we have a multi-generation family that loved the Dixie experience. We very much regret hearing the news on the passing of Ann, and wish we could have told her personally how our experiences at Camp Dixie touched all our lives. We're glad to hear that Rhonda will be carrying on the tradition that was so much a part of the day to day existence of Aunt 'Dot' and Ann Taylor. With fondest memories, The Hene Family
Emily Dalton	Stone Mountain	GA	Ms. Ann was truly blessed with all of our love. She really helped us when we had trouble or when we were homesick, she was there to help us out. And I thank her for all of the hard work. God Bless You All. Yours Truly, Emily Dalton
Martha Middlemas	Panama City,	FL	Amelie, Carleigh , Alex and Lott Middlemas are so very sad to learn of the passing of Miss Ann. She always wrote "Thank you for sharing your children with us." We were so privileged to have her in our lives. We will miss her and hope that Dixie traditions will go on.
Sean Harrington	Atlanta	GA	I've been going to camp for five years now, and it's probably the most wonderful place I've ever had the chance to go to, let alone live in for a few precious weeks every year. I've made some great friends at camp over the years, but I would never had had the chance if it weren't for Ms. Ann. She is one of the nicest people I have ever met and I am eternally grateful to her for giving everyone who's been to camp a chance to experience such a wonderful time. I will never forget her, and I know her legacy will live on through camp and the Dixie spirit.
Dakota Pharr	dallas	GA	birth from the sun as the sun rises the sun heats the earth, a beautiful flower has just given birth. The beauty opens up for the world to see, makes people woder how this beauty could be. It lives for the peace it brings amongust us, like the world is full of hope, peace, and trust. yet once again night falls this beauty must rest, so tomarrow it can look its best. it closes up nice and snug dreaming about spring being sprung. tomarrow once the sun is out a new beauty will be sprout. i wrote this a while back. and it reminds me of Ms. Ann because she was always happy no matter what she was doing. she brought a smile to my face everytime i saw her. i will miss her dearly.. love, Dakota
Rachael Claxton	Alpharetta	GA	I love you Miss Ann.
Laura Cater	Fallbrook	CA	When i went to camp at dixie, i got kicked out because Rhonda and Ann thought i was messing around with a boy named Kevin Blake. And even though it was my first and last camp to go to and i was quite angry at them for it (because i wasnt doing what they thought i was) The week that i was there was a great one. RIP miss ann! ~Laura Rosbrugh (Cater)~
Katelyn Reed	Thomasville	GA	This a character sketch that we had to do for english and i did it about Ms. Ann. Katelyn Reed Mrs. Nicholson English August 23, 2004 We’ll All Miss You Ms. Ann When I heard that Ms. Ann had her heart attack I wanted so bad for her to get better. I meant to pray for her and to send her a card for her to get better but I never did. I had too much to do with school and everything. Then on Tuesday, August 16, 2004 she passed on. She was the nicest person I had ever met. She always had a smile on her face and her brown hair straight and neat. She was the owner of Camp Dixie, a boys and girls camp. She helped with every activity but mostly with archery. She was like a substitute mother for everyone that went to Camp Dixie. Everyone would go to her for advice. Even Ms. Ronda would need help with preparing dinner, the horses, or something else. I remember once my counselor got locked out of the camp, because she went to town, and Ms. Ann found the key to the gate and went to unlock it for her. Ms. Ann has always and still will be in our hearts and there for us whenever we need her. In my mind she will always be at Camp Dixie and will never leave. She was the reason that I went back to Camp Dixie and it will never be the same without her. This story is in memory of her and we all will miss her.
Peggy and Aaron Olson	Miami	FL	Dear Miss Ann, The friendly voice on the telephone saying “Camp Dixie” always fooled me. It was after I heard “We are away from the phone” that I realized I needed to leave a message. Somehow the warmth of Miss Ann’s voice carried through to the listener, whether or not she answered the phone. The two of us used to laugh because a couple of times, she would answer “Camp Dixie” and I would wait thinking I had gotten the message machine. Such was the comfort of simply hearing her voice. I’m sure I’m probably the most common of all types of parents. I was so worried three years ago, when my son Aaron first came to camp. Miss Ann answered my questions patiently even though it was 9 o’clock in the evening and she had already put in a long day. Yes, she would say, he was doing fine. She would remember to tell me what had been for dinner and that he “seemed to like the spaghetti so much she though she had the wrong child,” for surely this could not be the picky eater his Mother was so worried about. Each year, Miss Ann, welcomed us, the people from Miami, and made it possible for Aaron to attend camp. When I called last year, because Aaron wanted to spend 4 weeks instead of two, she chuckled when I asked, “Do you think he’s ready?” I’m sure he will be fine, she answered, the question was if I was ready! She knew me (and my fellow parents) too well. I’m sorry now, that I never sent her the thank you letter I meant to. God is so good, though, because I did get a chance to wish her a Happy Mother’s Day, when I called. . She thanked me, but commented that she had no children of her own. Oh yes you do I said, you have all of the Camp Dixie kids. “I want to thank you for what you have done for Aaron, you have mothered him, the way you have all the children at Camp Dixie.” You have made it possible for him to spend three carefree summers at camp, just enjoying the beautiful outdoors and growing up a little bit each summer. This is what the Camp Dixie staff and Miss Ann made possible. When I commented to her that I was a teacher, we got to talking. I asked her how she found the children nowadays compared to a few years ago. I asked if she thought they were difficult to handle. Her response was as ever, positive. “I don’t know if it’s just me,” she said, “but they seem better behaved than they used to be, as long as they want to be here and know how loved they are.” “I’ve been doing this for over 30 years,” she said. “ I guess one day I’ll have to retire.” she commented. I of course was horrified, but encouraged her saying, well as long as you are there; I know we are so blessed to have you. She said she didn’t think she’d like retirement much, so I guess she kept doing the thing she loved for as long as she could. Miss Ann, for myself, for my son and for the rest of the Camp Dixie family, I can’t express my gratitude for all you have so generously given us. We will always remember you and love you very much. Peggy and Aaron Olson
Taylor Deadrick	Duluth	GA	The first time I arrived at camp and saw Miss Ann I thought my grandma was there. Miss Ann looked exactly like her but younger. It's really hard to imagine that the once young and hip Miss Ann has passed away and has gone to a better place. It doesn't make sense why God would take such an amazing person away from us. It seemed like just a few weeks ago Miss Ann was sitting next to me at the back of the dining hall doing morning watch for us. She would always elaborate on every story she told making sure we understood. We would always be the last ones to end morning watch, but she didn't care, she always had to get the last words in and that prayer. I guess this was for a reason. Maybe a sign. I don't know, but what I do know is that Miss Ann was truly the most amazing, caring, and strongest woman I have ever seen. She would always make you laugh and was very funny, but sometimes I would get caught talking surprise surprise and would get sent on the porch or something, but she would always forgive you for being rude, or disrespectful because she was such a caring person and understood. The other day Whitney and I were thinking how she could be gone, because she could hike up to riflery without getting winded or sitting down! All I know is that I will miss Miss Ann and she will NEVER be forgetten. Love, Taylor
Borislav Markov	SOFIA, Bulgaria, Europe		Miss Ann, You gonna miss forever. You did so much hard and interesting job that will stay in everyones memories. You used to be so glad, so good with everybody that it is hard to say any word against you. Live in peace! God Bless Camp Dixie! Kind Regards, Bobbie, Former Counselour 1999 SOFIA BULGARIA Europe
Jessica Gladden	Savannah	GA	It has been several years since I worked at Camp Dixie, but when I think back to that summer my heart is filled with all of the warm memories and great times that we had. I have so many stories from those 10 weeks. It was a life changing experience for me. Camp Dixie is unlike any other. It is such a special place that people are drawn to and the reason is all because of Ms. Ann and the love that she brought to the place. She loved camp and the kids with all of her heart and you could tell that the summer is what she lived for. She took us in and cared for us that summer and the way she loved the kids amazed me. Some of the friends I made in those ten weeks are still friends I talk to everyday and that is because of Ms. Ann bringing us all together. Jessica Dickson and Ben Johnson are two that I talk to on a regular basis. They are special friends that are the only ones who understand the family we formed that one summer. I loved that place and I wish I could go back every summer. Now that I am a working girl, I long for that carefree summer where I learned so much about myself. Ms. Ann was truly a blessing to all who came across her path and I am so glad that Rhonda is going to carry on her legacy with camp. I could think of nothing else that would make her happier. Ms. Ann had the biggest heart of anyone I knew and when I remember her, that is the first thing I think of. I love and miss Dixie Land! Love- JAG
vicki lee	highland village	TX	My grandfather, Alfred Scott, owned Camp Dixie for many years. He bought the camp from Pop J. My father, Richard Scott, and his two brothers grew up going to Camp Dixie every summer. My mom and dad had their first weekend date at a retreat held at Camp Dixie. My sister (Cathy Scott) and I (Vicki Scott) were campers at Camp Dixie. I was in the dining hall when we saw the first person step on the moon. I earned my junior and senior lifesaving certifications at camp and went on to be a water safety instructor during college. One of my bridesmaids was another camper I had met at camp. I plan on having my daughter go to Camp Dixie to experience the wonderful environment I experienced there. I am sad that she will not get to know Ann. My love and prayers to all who loved and knew Miss Ann. My dad died right before Easter so he and Miss Ann are up in heaven talking about all their joys at camp! Vicki
Danny, Kathy, Gordon and Madeline MacQuirter	Thomasville	GA	We were all truly shocked to learn of Miss Ann's passing.She was very important to Madeline and Gordon and we will dearly miss her. Ann had a very special position in life to influence many children in a positive way and those values, morals and principles instilled at Camp Dixie were those that Miss Ann demonstrated daily. She will be missed by all of us. Love, Kathy
Jacqueline Day	Marietta	GA	Ms. Ann was always there to take care of us. After every hike she always had our dinner being cooked or ready in the dining hall, and took care of our responsibilities so we could enjoy camp without many chores, except for cabin cleaning and our daily responsibility. She was always funny, nice, there to talk with, and made sure we always were having fun. Camp will be different without her but she'll always be there with us no matter what.
Chris Tomlinson	Mount Pleasant	SC	Some of my fondest memories are of Camp Dixie. I visited several times since then over the years and each time Ann and Rhonda welcomed me and knew me by name. Ann made that place feel like home even after I had been gone well over 15 years. I'm sure she will be missed by many people - certainly by Camp Dixie and anyone who's ever been associated with it. God bless you Ann. Sincerely, Chris Tomlinson
Kristin (Martin) Wright	Nacogdoches	TX	When I heard that Miss Ann had passed away, I felt like a door had closed on my childhood. Camp Dixie was such an important part of my life, and Ann was the one who made it all happen. I went back to Camp Dixie to visit several years ago (when I was in my early 20's), and even though she hadn't seen me since my last summer at Dixie in 1986, she knew who I was immediately. I was amazed that she would remember me, much less recognize me, after all those years, but that was how much she loved her campers.
Caroline Clements Burrell	Gastonia	NC	The Smile. My first memory of Ann was the year she was, unbeknownst to us, buying Camp Dixie from the Kotila’s. The year was 1969. Everywhere you went, be it the dining hall, the Rec Hall, the stables, there was Ann, standing on the periphery, quietly observing what seemed to be our every action. I wasn’t afraid of her for she had a kind countenance, but I was not quite sure of her either. When I would notice her presence she would just look at me, wink, and this smile would come across her face, like she was all knowing and could read my mind….thank goodness she couldn’t....because at the time, I was thinking to myself…who IS that woman? The Laugh. Finally the word was given that she was going to be the new owner of Camp Dixie. All Ann’s watching and observing now had meaning. As we began to get to know the tall, quiet woman, with perfect hair, even in the rain, the walls of wonder disappeared. Though Ann’s face was never overly animated, when she laughed, the room beamed with sunshine and one could almost get envious at the joy this lady derived from “whatever”. I remember most her enjoyment of Skit Night. She would sit on the front row and laugh and laugh at what most of us thought absolutely silly. But, her laughter definitely made me think I had missed something. The Conviction. Though “Women’s Lib” was on a rampage during the early 70’s, the idea of a “woman” buying a camp, the size of Dixie, was a very bold statement. However, if you took one look into Ann Taylor’s eyes, you could see determination, commitment, and the strength of a platoon of Marines! She was not only going to buy Camp Dixie, she was also going maintain the “spirit of Dixie” and that to me had so much more meaning than a piece of property. The Love. Many years have passed since my first encounter with Ann Taylor. Throughout it all, the love of Camp Dixie, the campers, and those in her community of friends was paramount. She smiled, laughed, and held fast to her convictions. And through it all, she loved. The Final Thought. Walking around Camp Dixie this past weekend and remembering Ann brought back a rush of wonderful, happy memories of my childhood. Though Ann is no longer with us…the one memory that will remain in my mind is the image of the tall, quiet woman, with a gentle smile, dressed in her white and green Dixie uniform. Though she be gone, as long as we have memory, Ann will remain.. Caroline Clements Burrell
kim ogunkeye	malvern	PA	camp dixie, under the leadership of ms. ann and rhonda, was the first camp experience for my children, erin and jay. the first year we dropped erin off, jay, who was only six at the time, saw the camp and wanted to stay right then. we managed to convince him to return home with us, after promising with a "pinkie swear," that he could become an official camper the next year. well, after all the accolades from erin's two weeks, there was no doubt they would both come back. and they did. the following year, they both stayed two weeks and enjoyed every minute. much to my dismay, they insisted they would eat much better at home if i "could only cook like ms. ann and ms. rhonda." the pancake breakfasts and spaghetti dinners sounded so delicious, i wanted to come! unfortunately, we subsequently moved to pennsylvania and after much searching, tried to find a more local camp that would rate as highly and feel as comfortable as camp dixie. and although the kids have spent the last two summers at a new camp, they have returned each time remarking that the food was "horrible, nothing like camp dixie!" needless to say, i can only imagine the depth of loss rhonda and ms. ann's family and friends must feel amd the ogunkeye family will lift you all in prayer, that you will be strengthened and encouraged by the generous, fun-loving spirit of ms. ann. may God bless and sustain camp dixie and rhonda, and keep the camp dixie legacy alive and well. the ogunkeyes (kim, john, erin and jay)
Steven Tomlinson	Decatur	GA	I was very sad to hear of Ann's passing. Even though I only attended Camp Dixie one summer, I have many special memories of that experience, and of the people like Ann who made Dixie an unforgettable time in my childhood.
Emily Springer	Atlanta	GA	I can't tell you what I did on my first day of camp 12 years ago, I can't pinpoint a single memory and tell you exactly when and sometimes where it happened. In fact, until about 3 or 4 years ago most of my camp experiences just ran together in a beautiful collage of nature and nurture unseen anywhere else in my young life. Miss Ann was always the big lady up at the big house (formally the little shack) that always joined in our activities and told us that we were special and helped us solve our various squabbles and learn to love each other unconditionally. She was always there to help me, but I never really needed it. Then when I started the CT program I needed it, a lot. I had never been saddled with this much responsibility all at once and I was sure I was failing because I was constantly yelled at by the staff and occasionally Rhonda herself for doing stupid things. Miss Ann would always see when I was getting stressed out or when I couldn't handle it anymore and she'd pull me aside and tell me how rare I was and how special I was and how much I meant to her. She always thanked me for all of my help and begged on my behalf to my parents to let me stay a little longer no matter how many things I'd done wrong. On the last day of camp every year since the first she'd pull me aside as soon and she realized I'd been crying and tell me that these tears were useless and I should instead work on my grades so I could stay longer next summer. There was always a next summer with her. I guess that's why I knew she wasn't gone, even when I saw her that day at the hospital next to the unplugged machines, because as long as there's a next summer she'll be back. It was always "See you next summer" as we sat in the turn-around and I dug my heals in and refused to get in the car, and I believed her every time. It was only this past summer that she didn't say "See you next summer," instead she said "Thank you for all your help," and that struck me as weird, but I knew what was implied... she planned to work me like a dog next summer and she knew I'd enjoy it!! Now I'm saddled with the fact that she isn't going to let me cry on her shoulder, she's going to fly above me and make sure I don't kill myself in a car accident or despair about my lowering grades. She's not going to pull me aside and tell me what I need to hear, she's going to help me in new ways now. The one thing I'm a little worried about is something she said this past summer. I was working on my article for Dixie Echoes (which never quite made it to the website... sorry) and she came by to check on me. It must have been 6 am but there she and Rhonda were, leaning into my cabin and talking to me. She told me in no uncertain terms that she would love to see me grow up and, as she put it, become the next Rhonda. At which point Rhonda began jumping up and down and exclaiming "Then I get to be the next Miss Ann!" Miss Ann gave her a smirk and, as usual, told me what a good job she thought I was doing and added some constructive criticism. Now I find that there will never be another Miss Ann or another Rhonda, there will be a Rhonda, and there will be a Springer or a Holloway or a Nicola, whatever new combination there is, and it'll be exactly what it is. I don't plan on trying to replace anyone, at least not any time soon, but I do plan on being there for Miss Rhonda and for Miss Ann and for camp and for anyone and everyone that needs me. I plan on being the person Miss Ann raised me to be, the best person I can be, and then some. I love you Miss Ann, and I know you love me because you told me so just the other day, and while I'll miss you for now, I know this is not the last time we'll get to see each other. Hope theyâ€™re letting you plan all the parties up there!! Love Emily â€œSpringerâ€ Springer (aka- Your Little Springer/ Miss Em)
Gianna Gandossi	Duluth	GA	I'd smile and then she would wink everytime we walked past eachother. It was our little routine that no one else knew about (at least i dont think so) I will always remember the little things Ms. Anne did. Her little notebook that she carried around ALL DAY because she kept every little intricate detail of Dixie in there. everytime we had morning watch last summer we would go into breakfast late because she had to finish her little story or listen intently as we finished ours. She got me interested in Archery and now i own my own bow and im starting an archery club in my school. She taught me how to be a better person and a good leader. Camp is what i live for and it wont be the same without her. I love you ms. anne and i miss you. you will live in my heart FOREVER Ms.Anne
Emily Springer	Atlanta	GA	I wrote this for Miss Ann and now my parents all but insist I add it to the book... Here goes: The car ride over was happy, was fun We fought, we laughed, we sang Cracking jokes and sticking hands out the window Our hopes were high, our heads wouldn't hang As we pulled into the parking lot And searched for the heart center It seemed like an ironic fate For someone with as big a heart as hers With our gifts and cards and flowers We wandered aimlessly Turning corners as they came As always, time the inferiority In and out, around and round We found our destination They kicked us out and brought us back To be recieved by a waiting Jason No one really told me I was left to guess But the absence of the bleeping monitors Told me she was at rest I quickly hugged my Holloway And kissed my Rhonda-Fay Miss Sally told her favorite tale Reminiscing 'bout a summer's day I held back tears as I looked upon The woman who raised me to be Exactly like her and Pop J too Exactly who I'm meant to be Miss Sally told us all It was time to say goodbye So after she had taken time Emily squared approached her side I squeezed her arm and kissed her head And whispered in her ear She did the same and whispered too Seeing how sureal it was to be standing here But as I left that tiny room As Craig asked if I was ok For a moment I couldn't comprehend What had happened that day She looked so very peaceful As if she was asleep It didn't seem that this could be The beginning of my worst week I must have cried a million times But I've laughed ten million more Miss Ann will never leave my side She wants to stay for what's in store I love you Miss Ann
Emily Holloway	Madison	GA	I need to say something, but sadly I come up blank. There's too many thoughts that swim around in my head, and I can't seem to put them into words. But today, I had a hard day, and I decided to go walking. When I got to the end of the driveway, wind was blowing on me, though I didnt see the grass moving or the trees bending, but there was definitaly some around me. I turned against it, and I heard a soft whisper, "Run Miss Em...." I had looked around me and saw no one, but suddenly a burst of adrenaline filled me, with the soft whisper repeating itself. "Run..." And, so I ran I had never ran as fast or as long as I did, my bare feet pounding the pavement. I felt like I had wings on my back, and I was flying. When I had reached my driveway, I my feet were burning and I was gasping for air, but I felt better. All my frustrations were flattened down on the road I ran, and I was able to put them to peace. Sometimes you just gotta run and sometimes you have to hold your ground. When I had looked up, there was an outline of a person, that was still running, right on through my woods. But when I blinked I couldn't see it anymore Thank you Miss Ann, I had a great time running with you today. And you look beautiful. Heaven must be wonderful. I love you
Andy Sanders	Edison	GA	It was 12 o'clock midnight July 1969. The 10 campers were sleeping around the campfire. Kerry Kotilia and I were standing the midnight watch.Our task was to be sure the horses didn't slip off the halter line. It was a clear still night. Camp seemed so close to "Millionaire Mountain" that we could reach out and pick it up. Kerry sighed and said "Andy, I need to tell you something. We are going back to Michigan. Dad is going to sell the camp to somebody working in camp." Well I couldn't imagine who. When he said "Ann Taylor", I said, "Well I wondered why your Dad hired two head counselors for the girls camp and sorta let one have free rein." I recall asking Kerry if she was real wealthy or just going to depend on hard work and good management. He told me he thought she was going to rely on hard work. I remember that the summer of 1970 was Ann's first season. We had a speical week for very young campers called Fun Week. Ann decided that we would not divide the campers up into small groups for supper. Instead we would have a long row of adjoining tables. At supper 30 pairs of little hands seemed to be grabbing and passing food in forty different directions. She looked a me with that speicial smile and said "We'll never, never do this again." Ann did put her special stamp on Camp Dixie and proved herself equal to the task of running it. I can recall how relieved she was to get the first season behind her. I was glad to be part of the early years of her directorship. The counselors of 1970 will miss our "Coach". Andy Sanders
Doris Pipkin	Orlando	FL	I have seen the pictures and all the beautiful messages about Ann. She was truly a very special person and one all of us will always remember. You girls did a great job planning the memorial service. Wish I could have been there. My thoughts were with you and I will always have happy thoughts about Camp Dixie. Love, Doris Pipkin
Brett Brown	Orlando	FL	I've known Miss Ann since i was about 2 when i came with my mom to a camp reunion. i started coming to camp in 93 and somthing i'll always remember is how much of a hands on person miss Ann was, i remeber working on plumbing with her, which she was pretty good at. she always knew how to use her money wisely so that she could put as much back into camp as possible. from laying her own pipe and repairing her own plumbing to bringing her own cheese to mcdonalds so she wouldn't have to pay extra for cheese. I can remember several years when there weren't enough staff people and she was in charge of a cabin. she did whatever it took to keep camp running smoothly. she was also an extremely patient person, when i was 13 i broke the pulley on the flag pole trying to raise another camper up it and we had to use big red to lower the pole so we could fix it. I remember her teaching ben how to drive and catching me ben and craig in the kitchen eating at night. most of all i remeber all the things that i would ask miss ann, about camp, past campers , when she first bought camp, it wasn't until recently that i realized how much i still wanted to know and how many questions i have still. I remember how much miss ann cared for each one of her campers and staff members and the bonds created at camp, the countless stories and how there is no place else quite like it. I have wondered since i was a kid why anyone would want to go to another camp, i still haven't figured it out. i have been wondering what camp will be like without miss ann, and i realized only her physical presence will be missing and while that will leave a void i can take comfort that under the guidence of miss ann Rhonda, Jason, all of the staff and campers have taken on some of her spirit, and they carry that with them to pass on to future campers and counselors so that miss ann will always be around in dixie. i knew that our time here is limited but miss ann's unexpected passing taught me that it is impossible to know when that time may be up, and that in life we need to do some soul searching and find out what it is we truly want out of life and make the effort to achieve it. I will always think fondly of you and never forget you or what you have taught me miss ann and i only hope that what i do with my life will be worth all that you have given to me. love Brett
Kevin Fyfe
Scott, Rhonda & Tasua Byrnes	Smyrna	GA	My daughter attended Camp Dixie this past summer for the 1st time, during Fun Week. I did allot of research before picking Camp Dixie as the camp for a 6 year old, and when we met Ms. Ann and Rhonda at Northpoint Mall at a camp fair, my husband and I both knew we made a great choice for Tasia. We look forward to sending Tasia back there next summer, and are sadden to hear about Ann. Take Care, & God Bless.
Susannah Neighbors	Deland	FL	My mom called me at school one night and told me Miss Ann had died and I couldn't believe it. I immediatley felt terrible because I haven't been back in 3 years. Each summer I wanted so badly to go and work for Miss Ann and help make that summer's campers fall in love with Dixie just like I did 10 years ago. Miss Ann was the most wonderful, selfless, and kind person I have ever met. She took so much joy in our happiness. I've always felt that Dixie is a magical place. Nothing is wrong in the world as long as you're there. I still hope to make it back to Dixie one summer. It'll be strange without Miss Ann, but as long as Dixie is there and campers are laughing and happy, her spirit will live on. I love you, Miss Ann. Susannah Neighbors
joseph / Cowboy Rudolph	Grovetown	GA	When my dad said she was in the hospedel I figred it was for a common thing such as broken leg, cut,or something like that. when i got the e-mail saying she had passed away i was in shock because she didn't seem to be a person with a heart problem. while i was at camp she never slowed down. sorry i couldn't make it to the funeral it was to hard to make that trip. sincerly, Cowboy & Miss Lil
Casey Brown	Orlando	FL	I have known Miss Ann as long as I can remember. Before I actually attended camp as a camper I remember picking up my brother at camp and seeing her along with Rhonda. I first attended camp when I was six, and stayed for two weeks. I remember having a blast. I loved the horses like any other male six year old I enjoyed riflery the most. Camp is always a speacial place to me and just being up in the Dixie Mountains is something to be enjoyed. Camp will not be the same without Miss Ann but she will always be there in Spirit.
Mackenzie Walker	Powder Springs	GA	I have kept putting off writing in this because I am truly at a loss for words. Ms. Ann ment so much to me as well as everyone else who had the oppertunity to know her. Some of my best memories come from camp and she was and will always be a huge part of them. May she rest in peace.
megan lowry	atlanta	GA	miss ann was like a grandmother to me. I grew up at dixie. She was the best thing that probably ever happened to that place. Its hard to think of what dixie would be like without her presence. She was just a big kid..every single one of her birthdays she was turning 22. she had a love for people, kids, animals and the great outdoors. She had many friends and was loved by all. I will always have memories that include her. She could comfort anyone in any hard situation and offer her help and support to any trouble one could face. i cant think of one time that she wasnt smiling. I will miss and always remember her.
Rachael Claxton	Jacksonville	FL	No one can even begin to describe the impact Miss Ann had, and continutes to have, on our lives. She was one of the greatest, most sincere, and loving person I've ever had the privelidge to meet. Miss Ann was a source of comfort and strength for all of those who knew her. Though I don't remeber meeting her, I do remember that she was always there for me and she made me feel like such a special person. Everyone who knew her can attest to that. Miss Ann had such a passion for camp, and the people there. Everything she did was to benefit Dixie and the people she loved... and she loved lots of people. Campers, counsellors, and strangers alike. She even showed kindness towards the health inspector! Miss Ann constantly supprised me, but at the same time was a person I could count on to be consitant. She was always making me laugh, whether she made a little comment directly to me, or just by something she did that only Miss Ann could. I'm so sad that she's passed on, but instead of dwelling upon my loss, I'd rather be reminded of how she's in heaven with GOD. She's smiling down on us, watching over us, protecting us, rejoicing in our successes, and helping us through our failures. No matter how alone we feel, we can always know that Miss Ann is with us forever, just as she was here on Earth. I'll love you forever Miss Ann. Love, (Rachael) Claxton
JB Desselle	Snellville	GA	Hey i loved mrs. Ann i so upset with myslef for not being able to be there last year to see her but i love you mrs. Ann JB Desselle
John Darsey	Valdosta	GA	I am shocked to know MS Ann has passed away.I talked to her back in March of 2004.I remember her from long time ago back when I was younger ,Summers of 1982-1986.I know she is looking down at Camp Dixie and watching over it with her love and grace.She will be very missed from me and my family.With love from a old camper John Darsey..
Sally Dumas	Bonaire	GA	I was a camp counselor/horseback instructor in the summer of !985. I did a 10 week "field work" for my Recreation Degree. I'll never forget how hard Miss Ann could work. I was alot younger than her and she could work circles around all of us. I had never had the responsibility of "overseeing" kids before. The horses were a breeze compared to them! Miss Ann trusted me and made me believe that I could do just about anything. Seems like that summer we did. I knew Rhonda that you would stay! I'm glad that you did. I have told many people about my days at Camp Dixie and Miss Ann. Thanks for the memories. Love, Sally
Caroline Parker	Alma	GA	I only went to camp twice but went to visit Miss Ann often.I Love and will always miss Miss Ann. ~!~Always~!~, !Caroline!
Linda Santorelli	Kathleen	GA	My son, Alex Parker, only attended Camp Dixie twice, however, his experiences there are ones he has and will always remember. Even though his visits were two years apart, he was remembered and welcomed as if he had been there every summer. I was and will always be grateful for the kindness and care Alex received while at Dixie. I am also, as is he, happy that he was able to be at Dixie with Miss Ann during her last summer there. I always knew Alex was in good hands as long as Miss Ann was there. She cared for Alex as if he was her own and always let me know how he was doing (not that I worried or anything). We were shocked and saddened when we received the news of Miss Ann's ill health and passing. She was a remarkable woman and will be greatly missed. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Karen Vogel	St. Pete Beach	FL	Ann, you will always be with "your campers" with all our treasured memories. I attened Camp Dixie for several years in the 60's at a camper and 70's as a counselor. (Sally Church was in my cabin.) You taught us many of life's basic lessons including treating everyone with respect. May God Bless you and keep you in his arms, till we meet again. Sincerely, Karen Vogel
Jo Miller	Jacksonville	FL	Camp Dixie began a journey for me that shaped my entire life. I began as a camper in 1966 and revelled in the whole camp experience. Several years later I came back to work for Ann and ran the barn and the riding program until 1971. Ann was special in that she trusted her staff to make sure that the experiences the campers had would forge life-long memories. Despite my working at several other camps, I newer felt as drawn to a place as I still am to Dixie. Sometimes in the winter I sneak up there on the way to my hideaway in Franklin...I am drawn to the view from the far side of the bridge, up through the trees to the cabin line. How did Camp Dixie shape my life? What did I learn from Ann? In a nutshell, the devotion she had to forging the experiences of children began my career in education and a commitment to the out-of-doors. I still camp, hike, take risks, and explore. Part of me has never grown up. That part still has a big piece of "camp" in it. I cherish my friendship with Ann and hold Camp Dixie dear.
Laurie Owens	Hoschton	GA	even thought i didnt meet miss Ann i have heard alot about her like she was lovin and if rhonda didnt have the the guts to get on to someone for doing somethin miss would or miss Ann would always be there if you needed help. Miss Ann was a loving, kind woman and no one will ever forget her and everyone that will ever go to camp dixie now and in the future will here about the loving wounderful miss ann
rachel sigette	cumming	GA	i never knew miss ann but from what i have heard about her is that she was a nice person and this year was my first year of camp and i would have liked to have known miss ann.
Kaitlyn Kincade			Miss.Ann I will always remember you. One day while I was at camp this summer, I was walking down to the playhouse and there must have been a hundred, at least, lilac butterflys. All of them just sitting down by the lake in front of the Rec Hall. and as I thought about how unusual it was I remembered that lilac was the color used at Miss. Ann's memorial service. Miss. Ann will always be there.
Emily Springer	Atlanta	GA	It's been a year and some change since that fateful day last August but the memories are still so fresh. This summer was a hard summer for everyone, and some people decieded that they'd rather not return, but all and all I think we've become so much closer as a family, including the new campers and counselors who never met the most wonderful woman in my life. I never could have guessed how much she could effect my life after she passed on, but my entire mindset on life has changed and my relationships both inside and outside of camp have grown stronger with the realization that we are not promised tomorrow. Rather than letting this bring me down (as it did initially), I've taken on Miss Ann's mindset of eternal youth, I may just stop at 22 too! I think instead of vanishing into memory and myth, she has become a part of every one of us, has been absorbed into the soul of Camp Dixie and, as such, has rubbed off on me and everyone she has touched, directly or indirectly. Miss Ann was more than just an amazing woman, she was, and is, a force of nature, and she, along with Pop J and the campers of old, watches over us little camper folk and plays her part in everything we do. This comforting fact is what keeps me going now and keeps me driven to go back to camp every summer for another 13 years despite the occasional case of the blues and fatigue. Like I used to tell Miss Ann all the time, I've been going her for more than a decade, you ain't gettin' rid of me now!!!
Ashley Tyner	Canton	GA	Miss Ann was the sweetest person I have ever met. She was always there for me whenever I needed a friend. She helped me through all sorts of times that she probably didn't even know about. I cry every time I think of her and her loving arms, and I know she is looking down on me, on all of us, at this very moment and is telling us not to worry about her and that she is fine. I was so upset about not being able to attend her funeral. I always appreciated her, but never truly showed how I felt, even though I'm sure she knew. I remember when she let one of the dogs up at the Dining Hall during snack and he tripped her. She didn't say a word or cry out in any way. That just is an example of how strong she was. She didn't want to worry anyone who didn't already see, so she went along and finished what she was doing. If a camper or counselor was hurt, uncomfortable, or needed something, she was always there to get it for them and help them out. I have so many wonderful memories of Camp Dixie and Miss Ann, and they will never leave my mind. Even though I will always remember her face and how she looked and acted, I wish I had gotten a few more pictures of her. I loved the way she ran that camp, checking our cabins and the way she decided who ate first, only I didn't know it until now. Rhonda is trying her hardest to continue life at Camp Dixie as it was with Miss Ann here. She is doing a wonderful job and trying her hardest. I want to thank her for that. I know that running this camp has to be the hardest thing she has ever done, but I know she enjoys it only because Miss Ann did so much. I will always remember something that Miss Ann said to the girls after dinner. She said that she could put a for sell sign up at the entrances to the camp and seel it for a lot of money, but that she chose to keep it, and not for the money. I believe her and from that know that Rhonda will do anything she can to keep Camp Dixie running and al campers as happy as they can be. Thank you soooooo much Rhonda, and may all of us keep Miss Ann alive in our thoughts, actions, and memories. God Bless, Ashley Tyner
Monica Springer	College Park	GA	Well, i guess i'm a little late here, considering its creeping up on two years since that fateful day when the woman we all treasure and adore passed on. I'm sure she'll forgive me, i was never good with deadlines anyway and maybe it's best that i waited so i could fully say how much of an effect, even today, that Miss Ann has had upon my life. I've read through all of these memorials today because while i was at camp for staff training week i knew she was looking down upon me the whole time. I started crying at Holloway's, because like her experience running with Miss Ann, i feel like i've run with her my whole life. Even today she runs by my side and gives me encouragement to keep going and make it through the rough times. Especially after this week, I feel her with me more than ever, because as Rhonda told me this week, Miss Ann always said she saw a little bit of her in me. Just like she was when she was a child, i am the blonde haired goofball who cuts up and laughs around all the time (some may say i do it too much for my own good) and Miss Ann would always give me a hard time about it, but i knew she was only trying to make me reach my full potential. i'll always keep that little piece of her tucked away in a special place in my heart and i'll share her and everything she has done for me with everyone i can-its the most i could do to ever repay her for all she has done for me. I remember the last summer we spent (physically) together she would always do morning watch for my cabin, and i look back on that summer and remember it being the best i ever had. That summer completely changed me...who knew that spending a couple minutes (ok, maybe a half hour, we would always run late) during morning watch to reflect on our character and look at the principles at camp could change a 14-year-old so much. But Miss Ann did whatever she could to squeeze that extra nugget into me and make me a better person. I would like to say that i now try my best every day, and since that August day my entire outlook on life has changed. I suppose that even in death she gave me a gift: she gave me a gift of a life-changing experience, and i will never forget that and am forever changed. The day that she passed, i think i cried more than anyone has ever cried in that hospital before. The days following, even now, have been the hardest of my life and i have needed her now more than ever. But somehow, i know now that although she is no longer in my physical presence, i feel a little bit of Ann Taylor live on in me. Now that she isn't restricted to being in just one place, she can keep a constant eye on me and make sure that i grow and truly reach my full potential. Last summer, i received a pink triangle for my tie just like Miss Ann did. Rhonda said Miss Ann would have made me work harder for it, because she wanted to see me improve so badly. I'm sure she would, but i knew it's only because she loved me so much, just like all of the Dixie campers and staff. This year, Rhonda told me she had improved a lot and that Miss Ann would have been so proud. I know that she is proud though, she is up there somewhere smiling down on me and watching me grow. I will never forget you Miss Ann. Without you in my life i would be a completely different person and I am eternally indebted to you and to Camp Dixie. I love you so much, and that doesn't even begin to cover it.

Please add an entry to the Ann Taylor Memorial Book.