Lavina Ann Adamitis Harter

Lavina Ann Adamitis Harter, age 106, of Collinsville, IL, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, in Geneseo, IL.

Born on December 9, 1918, in Collinsville, IL, Lavina lived a remarkable and faith-filled life spanning more than a century. Known affectionately as “Sweetie” by her friends and the community of Collinsville, she was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother — “Mom,” “Grandma,” and “GG” to her family, who were the center of her world.

Lavina was married to John Victor Adamitis until his passing in 1981. She later married Walter Harter, who also preceded her in death. Together, they built a legacy of family, faith, and love that will continue for generations.

She is survived by her children, Thomas (Caroline) Adamitis, Judith Adamitis (Larry) Kanke; cherished grandchildren, Thomas (Kelly) Adamitis, Todd (Ginger) Adamitis, Troy (Sara) Adamitis, Tim (Tanya) Kanke, Christina (Jason Leitner) Kanke, Michael (Shannon) Kanke, Patricia (Adam) Doe; beloved great-grandchildren, Jay Adamitis, Kelsey (Kyle) Austin, Maria Adamitis, John Adamitis, Jack Adamitis, Karie Adamitis, Joseph Adamitis, Adam Kanke, Victor Doe, Tessa Kanke, Greylee Doe, Thomas Adamitis, Lennon Doe, Noor Adamitis

Lavina worked for many years at Kroger, where she formed lifelong friendships with her co-workers, customers and the people of Collinsville. She brought joy to every encounter, and her presence in the community was cherished by all who knew her.

She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life — sipping a cold Dr Pepper, visiting Kruta Bakery, savoring Eckert’s peaches, or treating herself to Chick-fil-A. Her favorite color was red, and she loved to sit on her front porch watching the world go by. She also found great joy in traveling, but nothing compared to the time she spent surrounded by her family or snuggling one of her many grand dogs.

Lavina was a woman of strength, kindness, and devotion. Her long life was marked by her faith, her love for family, and the joy she found in her community. She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, gentle wisdom, and an example of living life with grace.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 29, 2025, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Collinsville, IL, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home in Collinsville, IL.

Lavina will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit and memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.