Anna Belle Browning Carswell, 89, of Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord Monday, August 3, 2026.
Born in Burke County, NC on March 1, 1937, she was the daughter of the late William Smith “W.S.” Browning and Cozie Jeanette Stroup Browning.
Anna's life was a testament to quiet devotion. As a founding member and eldest soul at Friendly Freewill Baptist Church. Known as a prayer warrior, Anna interceded for others with the persistence of one who believed deeply in prayer's power. She expressed her faith in tender ways too: through handwritten cards that arrived at just the right moment, carrying her encouragement and love. Anna took pleasure in reading in the sunlight, watching westerns, and in her careful tending of flowers.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Frances Carswell Curtis (Ronnie), Randy Joe Carswell (Teresa Ann), Connie Carswell Mitchem, and David Greene; grandchildren, Kimberly Curtis, Neil Curtis (Madison), and Brooke Greene; sister, Nell Browning Carpenter (Gerald); sister-in-law, Betty Jane Carswell Abernathy (Bruce); and a number of nieces, nephews, and other extended family.
In addition to her parents, Anna was preceded in death by her husband, W. Joe Carswell; grandson, Scott Carswell; brothers, William A. Browning, Jack M. Browning, and Herbert E. Browning; sister, Katie Browning Watts; and a son-in-law, Buddy Mitchem.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., Thursday, August 6, 2026 at Friendly Freewill Baptist Church. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. in the church with Rev. Paul Grindstaff officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Friendly Freewill Baptist Church.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Sending Prayers for Mom Ann Family, She was a very special lady . Who always had a bright smile on her face and always prayed for everyone. Heaven Gained a very special Angel.
Randy, Sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. One day I feel real soon she'll be seen again by all of you that loved her, in a much better place.
I will always remember you sweet lady . You were always so nice to me and my family . I love you sweet Ann.
Randy, we are so deeply saddened to hear of the loss of such a sweet lady. We are lifting you and all of the family up in our prayers not only today but in the days ahead. You definitely have the assurance that you will see her again. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. 🙏🏻♥️🙏🏻
I’ve know Annie for many years as her pastor’s wife at Friendly Free Will Baptist church. Since my husband Dan passed away two years ago on April 30, 2024 I have lived at Berkeley Assisted living. Imagine my surprise when she came to live here also. We have had a wonderful time eating our meals together and attending our activities here. She was a gentle happy person and I have enjoyed my time with her and I will miss her so much until l get to go to heaven also.
My heart breaks but rejoices. Heaven gained a angel. God bless
Praying for the family. Ms. Anna was the sweetest lady.
I loved my aunt MommiAnn, ❤️ 💕, just as I loved her husband, my Uncle Joe, who I took as my second dad after my dad died so young. She was always cheerful, glad to see you, even though she may be suffering, she took the time to catch up with family and give of herself. That's a rare gift. I know where she is, and I will see myself one day soon.