Anita Franks Buttram, 87, of Huntsville, AL, was called to heaven September 11, 2023.
Anita was a caring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She was born on June 23, 1936 in Walnut Grove, Tennessee, as the only child of the late Garald Franks and Flora Abramson Franks.
After graduating from Piedmont High School, she attended Shorter College in GA and graduated from Birmingham Southern University. She traveled
the world as an Army chaplain’s wife – with her husband and three daughters. Over the years, she worked as an elementary school teacher, real estate agent and early childhood educator. She was a bright light in all her social circles and never met a stranger. She shared her compassion with friends and family. She was a member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Huntsville and was also active in the fellowship club and sang with the Hallelujah choir at First Baptist Church in Huntsville, AL.
Anita is survived by her three daughters: Sonya (Mike) Hanks of Tampa, FL; Lisa (Paul) Withrow of Manchester, NH; and Luanne (Jack) Pugh of Gurley, AL. She was the beloved “Mamma Nita” to nine grandchildren: Nicole LeBlanc-Sariego, Timothy LeBlanc, Jonathan LeBlanc, Daniel Pugh, Blake North, Russell Pugh, Austin Pugh, Jackson Pugh, and Sam Hanks; three step-grandchildren: Alexis O’Brien, Shawn Withrow and Ryan Withrow;
and eight great-grandchildren: Anarah, Eliana, Loken, Juliette, Tychus, Syndrea, Murphy and Alina.
Anita would like to let you know that her work here is done. She won her battle against Parkinson’s and received her final call – for an appointment
from which she will not be returning. This assignment includes a reunion with family and friends. Her new mission takes her to a wonderful place where she will be socializing, singing, and teaching dogs new tricks to her heart’s content. Music, laughter, and love are guaranteed. Food is delicious
and you never gain an ounce. She left instructions for her children to celebrate her mission here, which has now been completed. Low adherence
to this instruction will not be tolerated.
She did a great job in this life. We will remember her smile, her warmth, her energy, her love for God, life, family and friends, and animals. She made
a difference in and brought smiles to the lives of many. We find so much peace in knowing she’s been healed by the ultimate physician.
We invite you to join us and celebrate together. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Interment will be private.
