Antionette Annie Sterrett

May 03, 1924 — July 16, 2026

Antionette Sterrett

Service Details

Antionette Annie Sterrett, the cherished matriarch of her family, passed away on July 16, 2026, at the remarkable age of 102. Born on May 3, 1924, in Des Moines, Iowa, she was the daughter of Jim and Jennie Montognese.

Annie spent her career working for the Des Moines School Board, where she dedicated her time to caring for children and serving meals in the school cafeterias. Known for her warm presence, she effortlessly made lifelong friends with everyone she met at work. A naturally gifted entertainer, singer, and dancer, Annie’s love for performance blossomed early in life when she sang on the radio as a young woman. Throughout her 102 years, she remained exceptionally funny, witty, and smart—a hard worker who brought joy and laughter to those around her.

Above all else, Annie loved people. She thrived in the company of others, so much so that she frequently took trips to the local senior center just to socialize and be around friends. Her ultimate pride, however, was her family, whom she guided with love, strength, and wisdom.

Annie is survived by her daughter, Danette Sterrett; Kay Ilertsen; her grandson, Jeff Rieck (of Illinois); as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Daniel Sterrett; her daughter, Johanna Sterrett Rieck; her parents, Jim and Jennie Montognese; and her siblings, Carmella Fusaro, Theresa Funaro, Frances Cunningham, Mary Hillman, Tony Montognese, Franky Montognese, and Catherine Crosby.

A mass will be offered in Annie’s memory on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 15 Indianola Road in Des Moines. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 1, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Addington of Des Moines, 5815 SE 27th in Des Moines.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.