Anna Mae Elam

Anna Mae Elam, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2026, at the age of 89. She was born on January 6, 1937, to Clyde and Anna Milligan. She leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, family, and cherished memories.

Anna Mae married Joseph “Joe” Dewayne Elam on March 3, 1958, in Phoenix, Alabama. Together, they built a life centered around family and love. She was the proud mother of Joseph Dewayne Elam, Jr. and Brenda Annette Max, and she treasured her role as a mother and grandmother above all else.

Anna Mae grew up with her three brothers, Wayne, Tom, and Earnest, who shared in the adventures and memories of her early years.

She graduated from Wann High School in Wann, Oklahoma, where her graduating class consisted of just nine students. She was a talented basketball player and became especially known as a free-throw specialist. Her English teacher, who also coached the basketball team, knew how seriously Anna Mae took her practice. On game days, he would let her skip class so she could work on her free throws—a decision that undoubtedly helped make her the player she was.

Her passion for free throws never really left her. Even years later, Anna Mae was always disappointed when she watched NBA players miss their free throws. She knew they could do better—and she wasn't shy about it!

Anna Mae found joy in the simple things that made life special. She loved her grandchildren dearly, and her family was the center of her world. She enjoyed crafting, puppy dogs, and working puzzles, finding happiness in creating things, solving things, and spending time with the people she loved.

Anna Mae was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe; her daughter, Brenda; and her brothers, Tom and Wayne.

She is survived by her son, Joe, Jr., and his wife, Sherri Elam, and her beloved grandchildren: Chris Elam and his wife, Jenny; Leisa Cole and her husband, Mike; Katie Hoffman and her husband, Kaleb; and Cordel Max and his wife, Dusti. She also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren who brought her great joy: Henry, Lola, Charlotte, Ella, Hanlee, Jailee, Tinlee, Sawyer, and Maddox.

Her family was her greatest treasure, and the love she shared with each generation will continue to live on through them. The memories of her laughter, her stories, her strong opinions, her love of basketball, and the countless moments shared with family will be cherished forever.

Anna Mae will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Though she is no longer with us, her love and the memories she created will remain in the hearts of her family and friends for generations to come.

Rest peacefully, Anna Mae. May every free throw from here on out be nothing but net.

There will be a public viewing held at Matthews Funeral Home on Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Anna will be buried at Resthaven Cemetery in Oklahoma City on September 4, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

A memorial service will follow at Matthews Funeral Home Chapel in Edmond at 1:00 p.m.