Anita Louise Moore

Anita Louise Moore was born on June 23, 1941, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to the union of the late Cornelius V. Adams Sr. and Addie L. Adams. She peacefully departed this life on Monday, January 5, 2026.
A proud graduate of the Froebel High School Class of 1959, Anita entered a new chapter of life in 1961 when she married Leonard Parker Sr. From this union, they welcomed their beloved daughter, Deborah Lynette Parker. Driven by a passion for healing, Anita went on to earn her degree as a Licensed Practical Nurse from Purdue University.
She began a distinguished career in Gary, Indiana, serving first at Methodist Hospital and later at Wildwood Manor Nursing Home. Anita thrived in her dual roles as a dedicated nurse and mother, eventually transitioning into private practice where she served for over 30 years. As a healthcare trailblazer, she was a steadfast advocate for women’s autonomy during their most difficult moments. She dedicated her career to empowering women to navigate their choices with dignity, respect, and the highest standard of care.
On April 18, 1970, Anita married the love of her life, Jerry Moore. Following her heart and her faith, she became a member of St. Timothy Community Church on October 1, 1979, under the esteemed leadership of Rev. Dr. Robert E. Lowery. Her devotion to her church was a cornerstone of her life; even as her health declined, her spirit remained steadfast, and she continued to faithfully pay her tithes up until her passing.
Anita was a woman of exceptional character, defined by a grit that saw her through life’s toughest chapters. Though she carried heavy responsibilities, sometimes retreating into her own quiet world, she remained a steady, dependable presence as a daughter, mother, and sister. She was a grandmother who deeply adored her granddaughter, Simone, and her love for her family was always practical, consistent, and deeply felt.
She had a vibrant side that truly came alive through her love of music and dancing. Anita cherished a good time and had a keen appreciation for the finer things, finding a sense of pride and grace in how she presented herself to the world. Whether she was enjoying a fresh hairstyle, the familiar warmth of a cup of Taster’s Choice, or the rhythm of a song on the radio, she knew how to find moments of celebration. She reminded us all that even in a life of hard work, there is always a reason to turn up the music and dance.
In her final three years, as she journeyed through dementia, Anita was cared for with tireless devotion by her daughter, Deborah Lynette Atkinson. In a profound act of faith and love, Deborah cared for Anita with the same unwavering commitment she had previously shown in caring for her own grandmother. Honoring the scriptures through years of selfless service, Deborah ensured that Anita’s final days were defined by dignity, comfort, and the peace of being truly home.
Anita was preceded in death by her parents, Cornelius V. Adams and Addie L. Adams; her husband, Jerry Moore; and her son-in-law, Michael Atkinson.
Her legacy lives on through her daughter, Deborah L. Atkinson; granddaughter, Simone Atkinson; and great-grandchildren, Saniya and Jahzir. She is also survived by her sister, Karen (John) Davis; her brother, Cornelius (Sandra) Adams Jr.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Visitation Friday, January 16, 2026, from 12:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. with family hours 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. at the Guy & Allen Chapel 2959 West 11th Avenue Gary, Indiana 46404. Homegoing Celebration Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Timothy Community Church 1600 W. 25th Avenue, Gary, IN Rev. Dr. Rameen M. Jackson, Officiating Interment Oak Hill Cemetery. Services will be live streamed promptly on January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. CST at WWW.STTIMOTHYCHURCH.ORG.