Ann Markwell Grant's Obituary
Ann Markwell Grant died on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the age of 89. Born in Kansas City, Missouri on November 15, 1936, to James Leroy and Ione Thompson Markwell, she was an identical twin of Sue Farley.
A 1954 graduate of North Kansas City High School, she received a B.S. in Education in 1958 and a M.S. in Education in 1963 from the University of Kansas. She wed Benjamin Lee Grant, her high school sweetheart, in 1959. The family moved to Texas in 1978. She taught high school English for several years, ceasing her teaching career to raise a family. An accomplished pianist growing up, performing and playing duo pianos with the Kansas City Philharmonic Orchestra with her twin sister Sue, she also taught piano lessons while her family was young and volunteered her time to accompany high school musicals and competitions in the 80s.
She also devoted extensive time at her children’s schools teaching advanced grammar and literature and loved watching the students’ knowledge in these areas develop. Her hobbies included playing tennis and bridge with her friends and neighbors, along with being a voracious reader. She was proud of her time with the Southern Methodist University Athletics Office and SMU Alumni Office once the kids were off to college. Later in life, she had a passion for the daily crossword, completing it each day, and loved cheering on the Rangers, Mavericks, and Cowboys.
Predeceased by her beloved husband of 57 years, Benjamin, and son, James, she is survived by daughters Laurie Lang (Joe) and Marcy Wright (Jim), sister Sue Farley, grandchildren Jacob and Lucas Lang, Stella and Griffin Wright, Taylor, Alex, and Abby Grant, nephews Michael Murphy and Mark Murphy, and niece Kathy Murphy Show.
Ann was beloved, dedicated to her family, and will be missed. At her request, a private graveside service will be held at Restland Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of Ann?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ann?
Share a story where Ann's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ann you’ll never forget.
How did Ann make you smile?