Obituary

Winston Gann

July 9, 1925 – May 20, 2022

 

Winston Gann, 96, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2022. Funeral services celebrating his life will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at 12:30 PM at First Baptist Church of Abilene’s Main Auditorium with Joe Frush officiating. Interment will follow in the Texas State Veterans Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday evening from 5:00-7:00 PM at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 Hwy. 277 S., in Abilene.

 

Winston was born on July 9, 1925, in Eastland, TX, to Buddy and Lois(Kellett) Gann. He graduated from Colorado City High School in 1942. He attended Texas Tech for one year before he joined the Army. He was a World War II veteran. After he returned from the war, he attended and graduated from Hardin-Simmons University where he received his Bachelor and Master of Science Degrees. He was an educator for over 40 years in Colorado City and Abilene. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Abilene for over 65 years where he enjoyed singing base in the adult choir. Winston married Lee Nell Blassingame on August 27, 1948, in Colorado City, TX. They were happily married for over 73 years.

 

For over 60 years, Winston was a familiar face at Shotwell Stadium at Abilene High basketball and baseball games. He took tickets, opened the gates, and visited with everyone. He enjoyed the games, but he loved the halftimes best, listening to the high school bands.

 

Winston is preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; and his son, Craig Gann.

 

He is survived by his wife Lee Nell; his daughter, Elaine Fortune and her husband, Kerry; grandsons, Cash Fortune and his wife, Alanna; Thaddeus Fortune and his wife, Kristy; four great grandchildren, Chasen, Jack, Judson, and Oaklynn.

 

Special thanks to Winston’s caregivers, Graciela Gonzalez and Mickey New.

 

The family requests that memorials be made to the Ben Richey Boys Ranch & Family Program or First Baptist Church of Abilene - Hope Center.