Ann Arras Van Blake-Portz

Ann Arras Van Blake-Portz, lovingly known as MawMaw, was born on May 19, 1940, in Birmingham, Alabama, and departed this world peacefully in her sleep on February 27, 2026, in Fairhope, Alabama. She left behind a legacy of love, warmth, and cherished memories that will be forever etched in the hearts of her family.

A proud graduate of Murphy High School, class of 1958, Ann's career journey began as a school bus driver while her children were young. She later became a salesperson at Atlantic Dept Store, eventually advancing to a bookkeeping position for multiple companies. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when she partnered with her son to start Bay Area Screw and Supply, where she worked tirelessly until her retirement at the age of 75.

Ann's warm presence and adventurous spirit made her an irreplaceable figure in her family and the community. Her ability to conjure the mouth-watering aroma of fried chicken drew neighborhood kids to her door, where they would enjoy not only delicious meals but also the joy that she radiated. Friday nights were frequently filled with laughter as she prepared two whole chickens for the family's weekend outings to Presley's Lake. She loved nothing more than sharing these precious moments of skiing, swimming, and indulging in her home-cooked fried chicken with her loved ones.

Her generosity extended beyond family gatherings, as she often played the role of a "secret Santa," surprising friends and neighbors with gifts they truly needed or wanted. A nurturing soul, Ann also enjoyed memorable times with the special women in her life, including her daughters and her beloved mother, affectionately known as "Nannie." Together, they would gather at the kitchen table, coloring and perming their hair, making memories that would evoke gentle laughter for years to come.

As a cherished matriarch, MawMaw became not only a beloved grandmother but also a second mother to many. She had a heart that loved the Lord with all her soul, and it was this faith that brought her comfort and joy, particularly in her reunion with her dear mother and those she had lost along the way.

Ann is survived by her loving brother, George Arras (Terry); her devoted children, June Chappell (Scottie), Jim Van Blake (Lorena), and Jerie "Deedo" Smith; along with her grandchildren, Christopher Smith (Loren), Mandi Chadwell (Jonathan), Kevin Smith, Tiffany Sweat, Jacob Van Blake (Rebecca), and a lineage of 9 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom holds a piece of her spirit in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Ann Arras; her husband of over 40 years, James Van Blake; her husband of more than 8 years, Lawrence "Gus" Portz; her oldest daughter, Gwynn Butler; and her grandson, Steven McGinn. Each of these losses marked her life, yet her faith assured her family that she is now rejoicing in eternal peace with them.

A visitation will be held to honor her beautiful life on March 4, 2026, at Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home, Fairhope,  from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM. Ann will be laid to rest at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Spanish Fort, where she can truly rest in peace.

The family will also hold a celebration of life immediately following the funeral service.  It will be held at the Fairhope Elks club at 561 South Mobile Street Fairhope AL where we will eat and share memories of a life fully lived.

As we remember Ann, we celebrate the immense love she shared with her family, the laughter she inspired, and the countless lives she touched. Her legacy will endure through the memories she created and the love she imparted.