Anita Bell, 83, a lifelong resident of Pampa, passed away on October 7, 2021, at her home in Pampa with her family and loyal caretakers by her side.
Graveside services were held at 10:00 AM, Monday, October 11, 2021 at Fairview Cemetery with Rev. Byron Williamson, pastor of First Baptist Church, officiating. Arrangements and burial were under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors.
Anita was born on February 12, 1938 in Pampa to Gula and Elwin Southard. Anita attended school and graduated from Pampa High School. While in high school, she met the love of her life, John Lee, and she later married her high school sweetheart on August 5, 1955. Shortly after their marriage, John Lee would have a life changing accident, but Anita took up the responsibility to help care for John Lee and she was a life-long devoted and dedicated wife to her husband. They shared over 66 good years and raised three beautiful children before her passing.
She was a member of First Baptist Church and served for several years on the White Deer Land Museum Board.
Anita had an incredible vision for style and had great taste with interior design. She always liked to keep her house and garden in immaculate condition and really enjoyed hosting her friends and family. Anita will be remembered as a classy and elegant lady who will be missed by her family and friends.
Anita was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Barbara Southard Wilson; her son, Bret Bell; a nephew, Stephen Wilson; and by a grandson, Will Vise.
Her survivors include her husband, John Lee Bell of the home; two daughters, Brooke DeFever and husband Lance of Pampa, and Brenda Brown of Lawton, OK; a daughter-in-law, Cathey Bell of Pampa; three granddaughters, Halley Roberson and husband Dustin, and Maurey Bell- Thomas and husband Phil, and Erin Christianson and husband Jeremiah; five grandsons, Matt Bell and wife Brittany, Andrew Brown and wife Kami, Ethan DeFever and wife Aubrey, Reed DeFever and wife Heidi, and Spencer DeFever; 15 greatgrandchildren, Brayden, Brailey, Brenden, Rowdy, EddaLee, Kyndal, Owen, Ross, Rooney, Alyssa, Jacey, William Lance, Madelain, and Blayke; and other extended family.
The family would like to express deep gratitude to all of Anita’s caretakers: Brenda Calixto, LeAnn Landers, Carol Jimenez, Carolina Sanchez, Bracie Harris, Marry Gillenwater, and Esther Rodriguez. The family wants you all to know how appreciative they are of the care and love you extended Anita.
Memorials can be made to PAWS P.O. Box 2095 Pampa, TX 79065.
Please sign the online registry at www.carmichael-whatley.com.
