Anna Hullander Rhinehart

Anna Hullander Rhinehart, age 91 of Apison, TN passed away on June 18, 2021.

Anna was born on September 22, 1929 in Apison to parents Roby (McGhee) and G. Blake Hullander, and brother Ralph B. Hullander, who predeceased her.  A lifelong resident of Apison, Anna graduated from Ooltewah High School and the University of Chattanooga. In 1957 she married the love of her life, Vance E. Rhinehart, and they had many wonderful years together until his passing in July 2010.

Anna was a registered medical technologist for many years, working at Erlanger, Tri-County, and Memorial Hospitals, until she decided that educating young children was her true calling. She returned to UTC and earned her education degree in 1969, and a Masters of Education in 1987.  She was a beloved 2nd and 3rd grade teacher at Apison Elementary School for 24 years until her retirement.  Even then, her love of teaching remained strong, and she tutored many students, and returned to the classroom as a teacher’s helper for a number of years.  She and Vance also loved traveling with family and friends during their retirement years.

She was always a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt.  Her joyful attitude and peaceful spirit brought happiness and comfort to all of us.  She always had a positive outlook on life, often saying, “Wherever I am, I’m content”.  Her smile would brighten any room or occasion, and her genuine personality created friendships with all who knew her.

Anna was an active member of Apison United Methodist Church until she moved to The Bridge at Ooltewah, where she called home in her final years. She was also a prior member of First-Centenary United Methodist Church in Chattanooga, where she was a dedicated member of the Chancel Choir, and of Apison Baptist Church, where she was church pianist for over 25 years.

She is survived by her children, Edwin Rhinehart (Kathy) of Atlanta, GA, and Carole Cunningham (Rick) of Marietta, GA; and her beloved grandchildren, Rhine Cunningham and Blakely Rhinehart, both of Atlanta, GA. 

The family would like to extend our deepest appreciation to the fantastic staff of The Bridge at Ooltewah for their loving care. We also extend a very special thank you to Faye Withrow, Lakesha Nelson, and Hearth Hospice for their unwavering love, care, and support of “Miss Anna” these past few months.

A funeral service will be held at Apison United Methodist Church, 4412 Bill Jones Road, on Thursday, June 24, 2021 at 11:30 AM. The family will receive friends prior to the service in the Fellowship Hall from 10 – 11:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial donations be made to Apison United Methodist Church.

Please visit www.heritagechattanooga.com to share words of comfort to the family.

Arrangements by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Rd.