Anna Louise Merendino

Anna Louise Merendino, born on August 28, 1944, in Miami, passed away peacefully at her residence in Inman on May 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of family, friends, and the faith that carried her through every season of life.

Anna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Sam Merendino; her parents, Dorothy and Alexander Hiltbrunner; and her brother, Jack Hiltbrunner.

Anna was a woman of incredible grace, wisdom, and unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Even after being diagnosed with cancer at the age of 79, she continued to testify to the goodness of God and the strength He gave her throughout her journey. When she first received the news, she comforted her sister Frances by saying, "Frances, I'm OK, God has got this." Through every hardship, Anna used her story for His glory.

She was deeply loved by her family, especially her sister Frances and brother-in-law Kevin, whose devotion and care meant the world to her. Kevin faithfully took Anna to doctor appointments and chemotherapy treatments, showing a love and kindness every sister would hope for in a brother-in-law. Anna was also surrounded by the love of her church family at Lake Bowen Baptist Church and the Gary Luther D-Group class, who continually encouraged and cared for her during her illness. Anna often said, "This church has been so good to me."

Anna dedicated 30 years of service to Dade County, where she retired as a Parking Violations Supervisor. She was known for her strong work ethic, kindness, and the way she cared not only for customers, but also for her coworkers.

Before her retirement, Anna worked at the Diplomat Hotel in Miami, Florida, where her exceptional customer service and warm personality made lasting impressions on everyone she met. During her years there, she served celebrities including Jackie Gleason, Judy Garland, Tony Bennett, and even Elvis Presley, who would sit and drink coffee with her while she worked night audit before one of his final concerts.

Anna also shared a beautiful love story with her husband, Sam. The two were married when Anna was 38 and Sam was 55, seventeen years and five days apart in age. Sam loved motorcycles, Corvettes, and most of all, Anna. After his passing when she was 59, Anna never dated again because she considered Sam the love of her life.

Even in her final days, Anna's faith never wavered. As her cancer worsened, she would say, "God has this and I'm going to be ok, until I'm not ok, and then I'm even more ok." Her life was a testimony of peace, courage, and the assurance that Heaven was her eternal home.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Upstate Community Hospice House in Landrum SC.

A Celebration of Life for Anna Louise Merendino will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, June 12, 2026, at Lake Bowen Baptist Church, with a visitation following the service.