Women’s History Month Spotlight: Annette  M. McCloud

During Women’s History Month, we proudly celebrate Annette M. McCloud, a woman whose life reflects devotion to family, faith, service, and enduring strength. Her story is one of resilience, quiet leadership, and generational legacy rooted deeply in love and perseverance. 

Portrait of a woman with gray hair wearing glasses, smiling in front of a decorated wall with plants and modern decor.

Rooted in Family and Heritage 

Annette is the beloved daughter of Mary (Story) Carter and Oliver L. Carter, and the cherished granddaughter of Addie (Barnes) Story and Billy Story. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, she is the fifth of six siblings and now resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where she continues to nurture strong family bonds and traditions. 

Her family heritage traces back to the rich agricultural lands of Southampton County and Courtland, Virginia, where generations of peanut, corn, and cotton farmers instilled values of hard work, resilience, and unity that continue to shape her life today. 

Education and Early Promise 

Known as a quiet, intelligent, and thoughtful young woman, Annette excelled academically, particularly in mathematics and problem solving. She graduated from Granby High School in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1978, and later attended Norfolk State University, where she majored in Office Administration, laying the foundation for a distinguished professional career. 

“Mom’s House” — A Place of Love and Legacy 

Annette’s childhood home, affectionately known as “Mom’s House,” was a central gathering place filled with laughter, love, and connection, especially during summer crab season. Today, she proudly carries on that tradition, opening her home as a welcoming space for family members from across the region.

Professional Excellence and Leadership 

Annette enjoyed a remarkable 38-year career marked by dedication and advancement. Beginning as a clerk typist at just 18 years old, she rose through the ranks to become an Office Manager, overseeing more than 30 staff members. She also devoted 17 years of service to the Defense Information Systems Agency  (DISA) at the Norfolk Naval Base, where she received numerous awards for excellence in recognition of her professionalism and leadership. She is also a proud member of Women of LegalShield and AFGE Local Union 0022. 

A close-up photograph of a woman with glasses and shoulder-length hair, smiling slightly. The image is part of a newsletter titled 'INSIDE DISA,' dated July 23, 1999.

Faith and Spiritual Foundation 

Faith has been a lifelong cornerstone for Annette. She is a devoted member of her family’s church, the historic First Baptist Church Bute Street in Norfolk, Virginia.  Baptized at the age of 12, she faithfully served as an usher and remains grounded in her spiritual foundation. 

Marriage, Family, and Legacy 

Annette was married to Perry D. McCloud for 35 years until his passing in June 2025.  Together, they have two sons: Michael, an engineer/carpenter (wife, Jessica, high school teacher/entrepreneur), and Terrence, child youth coordinator/head coach at the Youth Center on base. She is also a proud grandmother to Jesiah and Zayne,  whom she treasures deeply.

A man and a woman standing together in a park-like setting, both dressed in formal attire, with trees and greenery in the background.
A man in formal attire stands with two boys, one in a white shirt and the other dressed in a suit, all posing in front of a wooden door.
A family poses together, with a woman and a man standing behind a young boy who is holding a 'Student of the Month' certificate.
Person sitting on a bench in a school setting, holding a trophy and surrounded by various awards.
A young boy holding a wrestling championship belt, wearing a black t-shirt, denim shorts, a baseball cap, and black shoes, standing in front of a house.
A young male football player wearing a blue jersey with wing designs and the number 9, posing on the field.
Two men standing side by side in formal attire. One man is wearing a black suit with a bow tie, while the other is in a burgundy suit with a tie. They are positioned in a well-lit indoor setting.

A Heart of a Caregiver 

With unwavering compassion, Annette has served as a caregiver to her late father and sister through illness, while also navigating profound personal loss, including the passing of her husband and mother in 2025. Her strength in these moments reflects a heart rooted in love, patience, and grace. 

Entrepreneurship and Creativity 

Annette is the founder of Pillowriffic, a creative venture where she designs custom blankets, pillows, hats, and robes, proudly showcasing her work at local craft events. Her creativity is an extension of her warmth and attention to detail. 

Personal Joys and Interests 

In her personal time, Annette enjoys spending time with her grandsons, sewing, decorating, walking, bike riding, watching science fiction and comedy films, and attending live concerts, pursuits that bring her joy, balance, and inspiration.

Poem: Rooted and Rising 

From fields of cotton, corn, and ground, 

Where humble strength was firmly found, 

She carries forward hands once worn, 

Through every trial, she is reborn. 

A quiet mind, a steady grace, 

A loving heart time can’t erase, 

Through storms of life, she chose to stand, 

With faith in God and helping hands. 

A daughter, mother, faithful wife, 

A giver of her time and life, 

Her roots run deep, her spirit strong, 

A living, breathing, sacred song. 

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