Anita Louise Stone

Anita Louise (LaRock) Stone, affectionately known as "Kiki," passed away peacefully at Hartford Hospital in Hartford, Connecticut on October 9, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. She was 82 years old, born on September 9, 1943, in Meriden, Connecticut, to Concetta (Mezzone) LaRock, later Stone, and Ernest LaRock.
Anita grew up in South Meriden on Dee Avenue and attended Platt High School. As a young girl, she loved ice skating at Hubbard Park - a memory she often looked back on with fondness. She also loved playing "Detective" with her sisters and friends, complete with costumes and wigs, a reflection of her playful imagination and spirited nature. Over the years, she wore many hats - from stay-at-home mom to school bus driver for Wall's Transportation, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Telemetrist.
Known for her sparkle - both in spirit and in style - Anita loved all things shiny, blingy, and purple. Butterflies, dancing, music, and ice cream (earning her the family title of Queen of Dairy Queen) brought her joy. She was happiest surrounded by laughter, playing cards or bingo, watching movies, soap operas, or the Game Show Network, or cooking for those she loved. Her lasagna was a true labor of love, her pies were unforgettable, and her presence could light up any room. She shared an especially close bond with her eldest sister, Arlene.
Her friendships were another cornerstone of her life. Anita truly cherished the many friends she made through the years - from lifelong companions to those who became like family. The laughter, loyalty, and love they shared meant the world to her.
Anita was also remarkably strong - tough, independent, and unafraid to speak her mind. She faced life's challenges head-on and persevered through difficult times with grit and resilience. Her strength left a lasting impression on those around her and shaped the family she built and loved in her own way.
Anita was predeceased by her husband of 33 years, Warner Stone, with whom she shared three children: William E. Stone (Phyllis), Michele Short (Gary), and Shara Stone (Tom Ficaro). She was a proud grandmother to Nikki Martin (Dan), William W. Stone (Summer), and Caylee Chenkus (Robert), and a loving great-grandmother to Jack and Luke Martin.
She is also survived by her sister Yvonne Meagher and was predeceased by her sisters Arlene Camp (Raymond) and Cynthia Petroske (Jim). She leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, and other relatives who will miss her dearly.
In accordance with Anita's wishes, there will be no funeral services or calling hours. A direct cremation will take place, and her ashes will be lovingly shared among her immediate family. Some will be sprinkled at the grave of her husband, Warner Stone.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Anita's name to the Alzheimer's Association, an organization close to her family's heart. Donations can be made online at alz.org or by mailing a check to: Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.
Forever remembered for her humor, sparkle, and strength, Anita - our beloved Kiki - will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her.