Ann was mentioned in the 10 July 1833 will of her husband Washington H. Purkins. He called her his “beloved wife,” but stated, “I hope she will be prudent & not go in debt as many thoughtless widows do”. Proved 15 February 1847. [Essex County, Virginia, Will Book 26, pages 77–79.]

An undated loose paper filed in chancery papers stated that Winifred Howerton “died intestate her heirs are” James Howerton of the whole blood; Wm R. Howerton, ditto; Washington H. Purkins & Ann his wife, ditto; Philip Howerton, ditto; Eldred Howerton, ditto; Wm Howerton & Catharine E. his wife, ditto; Thomas Cole & Charlotte his wife, ditto; Thomas Howerton, ditto; Emily H. Howerton of the half blood; Mary Agnes Howerton of the half blood; Judson S.[?] Howerton, ditto; Ben F. Howerton [nothing indicated]. “Judson S.[?] Howerton died an infant leaving the following parties entitled to descent in the lands derived from his father” includes Ann Howerton, Eleanor H. Howerton, Mary Agnes, Benj, Wm R, James, Ann, James, Eldred, Thomas, Charlotte, Catherine, Walter G., Sophronia. [These legatees include two Covington children of William Howerton’s second life, Ann, from a previous marriage.] A note states that Wm R Howerton, Eldred Howerton, and Thomas Howerton are non-residents. [Essex County, Virgina, Loose Chancery Papers, 38-J-17.]