Anita L. Etheredge

Anita Louise Etheredge, Lovingly Known To Her Family As Lou/Ezz was a beacon of love, joy, and resilience. Born to the late Verda Mae Hanna and the late Leroy McCrary, she was the heart and soul of her family. She was preceded in passing by her beloved grandmother, Ella McCrary; her precious daughter, Dawn Murray; and her cherished brothers: Earl Dudley, Ronald Hanna, Claude Dudley, and Calvin Dudley.
As the eldest of seven children, Louise embraced her role as a nurturer and leader, always ensuring her family was surrounded by warmth and encouragement.
A Scholar & Leader from the Start
Louise was not just a graduate of Carver Heights High School. She shined in every aspect of her school life. She was an honor student, a vibrant cheerleader, and a beautiful voice in the school choir. Education was important to her, and she continued her studies at Bethune Cookman College (BCC) and the University of Central Florida (UCF).
A Passion for Teaching & Service
Louise's heart for children led her to dedicate 15 years as a Head Start teacher with the Lake Community Action Agency, shaping young minds with love and care. Her service didn't stop there as she continued to impact lives for over 41 years at the Mid Florida Community Action Agency, where her kindness and wisdom uplifted everyone she encountered.
A Woman of Faith & Devotion
Faith was the foundation of Louise's life, and she was deeply rooted in her church family at St. John Independent Free Methodist Church. She found immense joy in serving, singing, and leading in various capacities, including:
• President of the Junior Choir
• Lead singer in the Senior Choir
• Member of the Steward Board
• Active participant in the Women's Ministry and Usher Board
She didn't just attend church. She lived her faith, filling every room with her joyful presence and powerful voice. She loved nothing more than attending church concerts, leading songs, and worshiping through music.
A Life of Adventure, Style, & Joy
Louise found joy in the simple and the grand. Whether it was gathering her friends for brunch in Leesburg, organizing bus trips for exciting outings, or setting sail on a cruise, exploring new places.
She had a flair for fashion, always dressed elegantly, with the perfect shoes and purse to match. Shopping was one of her favorite pastimes, and she loved treating herself and those she loved to something special.
A Spirit That Never Gave Up
Louise was a warrior, full of strength and grace. Even when faced with dialysis treatments three times a week for three years, she never let it steal her joy. She pressed forward with unwavering faith, a smile on her face, and a heart full of love.
And then, on a peaceful Monday afternoon, January 27, 2025, the Lord whispered to His golden child, "Come home and rest." With the same grace and dignity she carried in life, she transitioned into eternity, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.
_______________________________________
Her Legacy Lives On
Louise's love, laughter, and unwavering faith will live on through her family, who will forever cherish her memory.
She Leaves To Cherish Her Memories To Her
Two Daughters: Kimberly Watkins (Michael J. Watkins) of Tavares FL, and LaRhonda McCrary of Tavares FL. Her Two Sons: Lamont Allan McCrary (Marvin Deleveaux) of Eustis FL, and Bruce McCrary (Reba Holder) of Tavares FL. Two Brothers: Bradford Hanna (Sharon Hanna) of Tampa FL, and Harold Dudley (Nora Dudley) of Ocala FL. 2 Sister In Laws: Nancy Dudley, and Ira Willis of Tavares FL. Nine Grandchildren: Tamara Watkins Small (Vincent Small), Countess Watkins (William Furlow), C'Ashia McCrary, Mariah McCrary, Kasey Murray, Kirsten Murray, Bruce Victor (Ashley Victor), Kristopher Murray, and Korey McCrary. Fourteen Great Grandchildren: Zanyadah Richardson, Londynn Small, England Small, Alexa Victor, Brooklyn Victor, Kameil Williams, Antonio Williams, Jelayshia Tate, Emoura Stewart, Garfield Stewart Jr, Kristopher Murray Jr (Deceased), Kiarah Murray, Kash Murray, and Kannon Murray. Four Great Great Grandchildren: Damaurien Ward, Adariuyah Sanders, Sekani Sanders, and Azuri Sanders. God Son Casey Johnson of Leesburg FL, Special Friends: Ruby Ashley (Mother Of St.John), Burney Vaughn (President of Steward Board), Elizabeth Mikell, Gwen McDuffie, Clarinda Mackey, Sophia Threat, Jackie Barrett, and Comolieta Chandler. Special Cousins: Willie Mae King, and Annie Kadyebo.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of Anita L. Etheredge, visit the
.