LaNita Ames

LaNita Ames passed peacefully on February 9, 2026, at the age of 93. She was born on August 22, 1932, and on January 14, 1949, she married the love of her life, Tommy Ames. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and love.

LaNita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tommy, and all four of their children, Tommy Lee, Dean, Garry, and Larry Ames, a loss she carried with grace and unwavering faith. She was also preceded in death by her dear brother, Jerry, whom she affectionately called her “baby,” as well as her parents and many cherished loved ones who welcomed her home.

Her legacy lives on through her son Dean’s wife, Gay, 12 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and numerous great-great-grandchildren, each of whom she deeply loved.

A devoted member of First Baptist Church, LaNita was a strong Christian woman whose life reflected kindness, forgiveness, and selflessness in every season. She worked many jobs over the years, including her favorites as a truck driver and switchboard operator, but her most treasured roles were those of wife and mother. Many grandchildren fondly remember learning to cook by her side, lessons filled with patience, laughter, and love.

LaNita found deep joy at the cabin, where she loved hiking the mountain, visiting with friends, and watching wildlife. Hummingbirds were her favorite, though she also delighted in spotting bears, one she lovingly called Tri-pod. She enjoyed thrift shopping, browsing arts and crafts shows, and opening her heart, and her home, to animals in need. Homeless animals somehow always found their way to her doorstep, and each one found warmth, care, and love.

Above all else, LaNita will be remembered as a loving, kind, compassionate, and faithful woman,a true example of Christ’s love lived out daily.

A celebration of LaNita’s life will be held at First Baptist Church in Dalhart, Texas, on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with Kurtis Abla officiating. LaNita will lie in state on Friday at the funeral home from noon until 8:00pm with the family receiving guests beginning at 6:00pm. LaNita's services are under the direction of Dalhart Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Her love endures, her faith remains, and her legacy will continue for generations.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Alzheimer’s Association, American Heart Association, or Dalhart Memorial Park Cemetery Fund.