Anita Smith Collier, age 77, of Athens, Alabama, peacefully passed away on May 15, 2025, following an extended illness. Born on February 12, 1948, in the Coxey Community of Limestone County, Anita was the daughter of the late Roswell Houston “Cotton Head” Smith and Elizabeth Blair Smith. A proud Limestone County native, she was known for her hard work, deep love, and unwavering care for her family and friends.
Anita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmy Collier, and her sisters Dorothy Hudson, Linda Shields, and Martha Sims. She is survived by her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Alyson and Shane Carpenter, and her treasured grandson, Brady Carpenter. Anita also leaves behind her sister, Susan Tucker; brothers Ross Smith, Tommy Smith, and Johnny Smith; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins whom she loved dearly.
Anita dedicated many years to her career in insurance, then later serving as a dispatcher for the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office before retiring from the Limestone County Revenue Office in 2010. A woman of faith, she was a member of the Church of Christ and was known for her generosity, often arriving with a casserole, a cake, or a cleaning cloth in hand to help those in need.
In her retirement years, Anita relished beach trips with her sister and dear friends, creating memories filled with laughter, sunshine, seafood, festivals, and shopping. She enjoyed playing bunco, thrift store shopping, bragging about her grandson, and babysitting her favorite grand-pup, Mavis. Known by many affectionate names—Mama, Nita Mama, Sis, Aunt Nita—her favorite was “Mamaw,” a testament to the love she shared with her family.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of North Alabama, The Goldton at Athens, and Limestone Nursing and Rehab Center for their compassionate care and kindness during Anita’s final days. In lieu of flowers, they request donations be made to Hospice of North Alabama to honor Anita’s life and the comfort they provided.
A public visitation will be held at Limestone Chapel Funeral Home on Sunday, May 18th from 12:00-1:45pm. Pallbearers will include Ty Smith, Jerry Shields, Shane Smith, Tim Sharp, Bain Carpenter, and Tracy Carpenter.
Anita Smith Collier will be remembered for her loving spirit, generosity, and the joy she brought to those around her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched.
