Anita Lucile Eckard, aged 92, died Tuesday, December 6, 2022 in Independence, Missouri.
Anita was born Anita Lucile Turley on June 10, 1930 in Irving, Kansas, the daughter of David Thomas Turley and Ammie Lucinda (Vaught) Turley. Anita is survived by her sister, Margie A Severin.
Anita graduated from Vermilion, Kansas high school and lived in Kansas and Missouri most of her life. She married Benjamin Franklin (Frank) Johnson after graduating high school and, together with Frank, they had eight children: Phyllis Anita Bratcher, Benjamin (Ben) Franklin Johnson, Jr, Teresa (Teri) Rae Bryant, Scott Frederick Johnson, LaDawna Joy Elder, Julie Anne Whiting, Jeffery Paul Johnson, and Eric Mitchell Johnson. Anita is survived by children Ben, Teri, Joy, Julie, Jeff, and Eric and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Anita married Stanley W. Eckard in 1986. They enjoyed many of their retirement years at the Lake of the Ozarks and were later caregivers to Anita’s elderly mom for several years. Anita was survived by Stan until his death on February 7, 2023.
Anita will be remembered for her acts of service to her many children and grandchildren, her work-ethic, and her strong intellect. She excelled in computer skills and connected with her kids via ‘computer online chat’ long before iPhones or text became available. She managed her household efficiently and on Sunday mornings had her children well-groomed and in Sunday School where she played the piano in their church in Atchison, Kansas. In retirement, she and Stan were faithful members of their church at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Per Anita’s request, cremation has taken place. Private interment is at Higginsville Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville, Missouri with her husband Stan.
Obituary submitted by family.
Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, Independence, MO (816) 796-8600