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Ann Bateman is one of the most upbeat people you will meet. She exudes a vibe that sends you a message that she is one who finds a way to get things done. She is an inspiration to anyone who strives to live a long, productive life. As more and more elderly became less active, Ann has flipped that spectrum in another direction. Ann moved from New Orleans to Picayune in December of 1998. She had lost her husband five years prior and de- cided to move to Picayune as New Or- leans started ‘to change”. She and her husband had friends, who were once their neighbors in New Or- leans, that had moved to Picayune. Ann and her husband visited them regularly in Picayune, so moving here was not a com- plete surprise or culture shock. “I tried New Orleans after my husband, but it just didn’t work out.” Ann walks to work and church. Ann works four hours per day five days a week at West Side Elementary. She attends St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. She does not have a car, but that does not deter her from her obligation to be at work, nor her commitment to attend church services. “I never drove my whole life. I depended on my husband,” she stated. Ann said when she moved to Picayune she was looking for a part-time job. “I saw an ad in the newspaper for this job, so I applied for it.” At West Side, Ann helps in the kitchen as needed. Her main responsibility is to keep the dining area clean, make sure there is not any trash laying around the cafeteria, but she does much more than that as needed. Mike Binney, the Director of Food Serv- ices for the Picayune School District said this about Ann. The day I went to visit, I was concerned about being a little early. Mike said no worries at all, because she usually arrived fifteen minutes early and ready go when her work shift begins. He added this about her. “Ms. Ann is a lovely lady and a true inspi- ration to everyone.” Watching her go about her duties, it’s ev- ident Ann is very happy to be working at West Side Elementary. Her attention to detail is evident as she cleans the tables to make sure they are spotless before the 12 SOUTHERN SENIOR MAGAZINE | Fall 2023 Ann Bateman Just Keeps Going... By: Carey Meitzler