06/08/2026
It is with profound sadness that I share the passing of one of our longest-tenured and most beloved staff members, Anne Welborn.
Anne joined the BST team in 2010 and quickly became a cherished colleague, advocate, and friend. Even after her “retirement” a few years ago, Anne simply could not stop giving of herself. Her dedication to the people she served was such a part of who she was that she continued supporting an individual as a behavior consultant long after stepping away from full-time work.
Born on June 16, 1954, Anne attended school in Argos, Indiana, before earning her bachelor’s degree from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, in 1977. She later returned to complete her master’s degree in 1997. Throughout her life, Anne’s faith and compassion guided her path. She devoted herself to serving others as a fourth-grade teacher, resident assistant at Liberty University, job coach for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, residential supervisor, behavior consultant, guardian, and advocate. Her career was not simply a profession—it was a calling.
Anne passed away unexpectedly in her home on June 6, 2026, with her beloved cat, Wrigley, faithfully by her side. While Anne touched countless lives through her work, she was also wonderfully unique in the things she loved. She was a passionate Chicago Cubs fan and often joked about her “cougar crush” on Anthony Rizzo. Her cell phone rang to the tune of Gone with the Wind, and two of her cherished cats were named Rhett and Scarlett. Wrigley, Maxie, and Charlie completed her beloved fur family, each bringing her daily joy and companionship.
Although Anne did not have children of her own, she deeply loved her family and never missed an opportunity to proudly share their accomplishments. She also formed extraordinary bonds with many of the individuals she supported throughout her career. Jeff, Chris, and Brian held special places in her heart, and Anne’s devotion to Jeff was especially profound. She remained his advocate and healthcare representative until his untimely passing last year, standing by him with unwavering loyalty and care.
To know Anne was to witness genuine kindness in action. She gave freely of her time, her energy, her wisdom, and her heart. She had a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for. The lives she touched are better because she was part of them.
I can honestly say I have never met anyone with a purer heart. Anne's life was defined by service, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to others. Her BST family is grieving this tremendous loss, while also feeling immense gratitude for the privilege of having known her. We take comfort in imagining her at peace, enjoying endless Dr. Peppers, a perfectly fresh red manicure, and the company of those she loved.
I will be forever grateful for Anne’s friendship, loyalty, humor, and example. Her legacy will live on in the many lives she changed, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.
With heartfelt sadness,
Kelly Howard
