Morrison names Gann its top citizen
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Nomination letters highlighted a number of Gann’s qualities. Loved by former students and known as a Christian woman, she was said to be a “wonderful neighbor” who shares goodies and cheer boxes and often prepares meals for shut-ins, those who are suffering from illness, or those who are dealing with a family tragedy.
She encouraged students to write letters to the soldiers stationed overseas and to collect supplies for them – and mailed them at her own expense.
“Mrs. Gann’s good deeds are done so quietly,” one nomination letter read. “She is always busy in her church work.”
Gann graduated from Centertown High School in 1963 as valedictorian of her class. She graduated from MTSU in 1967 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.
Gann taught Head Start at Centertown School during the summer and then taught at Eastside for two years. She was transferred to Northside Elementary to teach reading and assist Mrs. Olus Myers with first grade. She then went to West Elementary and William Biles schools. At that time, former superintendent Joe Stewart requested she work on a newly formed state reading program.
In 1974, she earned a master’s degree in administration. The following year, she found a home at Morrison Elementary teaching second grade until 2003. She is now a Title I teacher.
A life-long member of the Warren County Education Association, Tennessee Education Association, the National Education Association and the Morrison Parent-Teacher Association, she has also been involved with Business and Professional Women, Young Career American Association of University Women and the International Reading Association.
She has been a member of the Ivy Bluff Church of Christ for more than 45 years. She lived on Staten Island, N.Y., for six weeks working with the church. She also participated in Campaigns for Christ in Illinois and Florida.
Gann is married to Charles Gann and the couple has one daughter, Holly Bain.
Morrison Ruritan is inviting everyone to come to the Ruritan building this Friday, April 15 at 7 p.m. to celebrate the evening with Gann and her family. For reservations, contact Mike Holland at 939-2540 by April 13. The meal is $6.