March 24, 1933 – May 12, 2024
Anita Irene Tarkington Lee, a devoted servant of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12, 2024, at the age of 91. Anita was born March 24, 1933, to Shuford Louis and Irene Raney Tarkington in Memphis, Tennessee. She later married her high school sweetheart, Don N. Lee, Sr. from Bay City, Texas, in April of 1951 who preceded her in death in 1986. She is also preceded in death by her loving parents and sister and brother-in-law, Katie and Jack Brodie.
Upon marriage, Don and Anita moved to Angleton, Texas, had four children, and then later moved to Alvin in 1963.
Anita was an avid Bridge player her whole life. She played with multiple clubs throughout the years.
Anita has been a loyal member of the Methodist Faith since 1943 when she joined the church at the age of 10. Anita devoted her life to the church and serving the Lord. She loved to read, study, worship, and teach the Word of God. Anita was a fervent prayer warrior. She loved music and was a faithful member of the church choir. She was especially passionate about the annual Christmas Cantata. She served as Sunday school teacher to children and the adult congregation. Anita visited the Holy Land of Israel in March of 2013, at the age of 79 which was a life-long dream of hers.
People that knew Anita loved and appreciated her sense of humor, her honesty, and her beautiful outlook on life reflecting her Christian Faith.
Anita took much joy in celebrating holidays and special occasions with her family and was known for always enjoying a good cup of coffee and a slice of pie with homemade whipping cream.
Anita is survived by her children Gaye Wootton and husband, Allen, Don N. Lee, Jr., and wife Rhonda, LuAnne Glardon, and Kathryn Lee, and husband David Carpenter. Anita is also survived by her nine grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren.
Please join us in celebrating her life Friday, May 17, 2024, at Alvin Methodist Church, 611 West South Street, at 1:00 pm with Rev. Kenny Carter officiating. A dessert reception will immediately follow the service. A private graveside will be held at a later date.
Anita’s family will always celebrate Mother’s Day as the day she entered the Kingdom of Heaven. Her legacy as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother will forever be reflected through her family and loved ones.
The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the staff of Morada Senior Living in Friendswood, Texas. Anita referred to Morada as “home” for the last 18 months of her beautiful life.
Also, thank you to Harbor Hospice for providing Anita with a comfortable, loving transition to her forever home.
In lieu of flowers, please convey honorariums to Alvin Methodist Church, 611 W. South Street, Alvin Texas, 77511.
9 thoughts on “Anita Irene Tarkington Lee”
I loved Anita Lee. I’ll never forget the fun we had going around town promoting the teens production of High Tops. I always enjoyed seeing & visiting her in church each Sunday. She is a beautiful lady.
Mrs. Lee had a heart of gold and everyone around her felt it! I’m sorry I can’t be there Friday! Sending prayers and love!!!
I will remember Anita Lee fondly for her beautiful smile & wonderful sense of humor. She was always a great witness & mentor of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Mrs. Lee was always upbeat, every single time I saw her through the growing up years and as an adult! Her spirit was always the same and never waivered. And so so sweet. I love her faith. She is such an example to all of us. Prayers to Lu Anne, Gaye, Don and Kathryn, grandhildren and great grandchildren for God's peace and comfort that only He can give.
It is hard when we lose a loved one, but so wonderful when we have the memories that we can cherish!
God’s continued blessings upon you and yours!
So sorry for your loss. Anita was an amazing lady. Always a joy to be around. Sorry we are out of town and will miss her service.
Such a kind Person. Always smiling. Don Sr will be waiting at the Gate.
My sincere condolences to the family. May her memory be eternal, and may God wrap his loving arms around all of you.
Anita was such a true “ Southern LADY”. She was physically beautiful, but more so, her personality was so gracious, honest and kind. I met her in the early 80’s when I was active in the Methodist church. Her kindness was from the heart.
I can remember beautiful Anita, and her tall handsome
husband walking down the Methodist church isle, to sit for the service., and I always thought… “That is the perfect couple”, as Mr. Lee was such a gentleman toward Anita, and you could tell, she adored him.
Condolences to the family… Especially her children. May God give them a peaceful heart.