Anne Cassady McCraw, 76, of Rockvale, TN, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026. She was born on September 5, 1949, in Spartanburg, SC, to the late Ed and Rubyliene Cassady. She is survived by her loving husband, Jay McCraw; her devoted daughter, Erin McCraw Goett (Andrew); and her cherished granddaughter, Nora Elizabeth Goett. She also leaves behind her beloved cat, Butler. Anne is also survived by her brothers, Bobby Cassady and Daniel Cassady (Cindy), nieces and nephews, and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness and wisdom. Anne was preceded in death by her parents and sister-in-law, Ann Cassady.

Anne graduated from Appalachian State University (B.S.) and Middle Tennessee State University (M.A; Ed.S.), experiences that helped shape her calling to education and service. A proud veteran, Anne served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army. Her dedication to service continued throughout her career, as she spent 35 years working in public education. Anne believed deeply in the transformative power of public schools and devoted her life to supporting students and educators.

Anne was known for her unwavering faith and deep appreciation of life’s simple and meaningful joys. She loved music, reading, and spending time in the mountains. She had a special gift for piecing quilts—an art she cherished not for the quilting itself, but for the careful and creative work of bringing beautiful pieces together and then sharing their warmth and comfort with others.

Anne lived by the words of scripture found in 1 Peter 4:10:

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Her life reflected that calling—through service, education, love of family and friends, and the quiet grace with which she cared for others. Anne will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her love of music and its power to inspire and heal, her deep belief in the promise of public education, and the many lives she touched through a life of service, learning, and love.

A Celebration of Anne’s life will be held on Saturday, March 21, at 2:00 p.m. at Fellowship United Methodist Church, 2511 New Salem Highway, Murfreesboro, TN.

Anne loved gathering with friends and family around the table for good food and fellowship. In that spirit, the family will receive friends at a potluck reception at the church following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fellowship United Methodist Church or by donating a book for Rutherford County Schools libraries.