Anita Smith

"Hello, there. This is Anita Ruth Smith (Hale), or as you may fondly know me, Aunt Teda, The Queen, Mamacita, Gma, or Gmama. I was born on the 30th of May 1933, in Danville, Arkansas and I've had quite the adventurous ride that led me to many corners of the world.
From joining the United States Navy after graduation at the age of 18 to St. Joseph, LA, to the many corners of California, to Quantico, VA, to Camp Lejeune, NC, to Saudi Arabia, to finally settling down in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, where I've spent the last 29+ years. My journey was one filled with courage, glamour and humor often demonstrated through my love of personal style. My professional life was as dynamic as my personality and I had a spirited career in construction and civil service, working for the Mohave County Assessor until my retirement in 1998.
I was a woman of great strength raising 6 children single-handedly. My dedication to my community was portrayed though my commitments to the Red Cross, Eagles, Desert Singles Club, and the Local Food Bank. But I also knew how to have fun! I was an energetic spirit who coached softball and cheered on my many grandchildren.
You could often find me rooting for my favorite sports teams like the LA Lakers, the Phoenix Suns, and the AZ Cardinals. Let's not forget my love for Kobe Bryant! I enjoyed boating on the lake, and nothing beat a cold beer or a margarita. I was also known to swear like a sailor!
Throughout my life, I found solace and strength in my faith, attending Lakeview Community Church and always keeping the words of Matthew 5:16 in mind, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." But what mattered most to me was my family. I was blessed to have raised six wonderful children and to have seen my numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. What a joy in my life!
I leave behind my loving family: Cynthia and Robert Stefick, Melinda and Bert Marron, Kimberly and Mike Rogers, Susan and Richard Robinson, Norman (Skip) Shetler and Leigh Anne and Tikai Wolf.
I join my parents, J Hale and Winnie Hale, and my 7 siblings who preceded me. Life has been a funny, adventurous ride and I hope I've made all of you proud. Please remember me as the funny, spirited, and compassionate woman that I was.
I invite everyone to grab your ditty bag, leave your memories and upload photos to my memorial page. Let's celebrate the life I lived together, filled with laughter, love, and a whole lot of adventure. Until we meet again... Anita."