It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Mrs. Anita Maxey on November 6, 2023. Born on October 28, 1950, Anita's rich and fulfilled life touched countless souls. She was a loving wife (48 years), mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend and inspirational teacher. Her loss creates an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her loved ones.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Kenneth Maxey, her two sons, Kenneth Maxey II and Sean Maxey, her cherished granddaughter, Maya Maxey, and her daughter-in-law, Lara Maxey. She is also survived by her siblings, Barbara McPheeters, Sheila McConico (James), and Michael Swanegan (Linda), nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family (The Shbeyr/Maderis Family). Preceding her in death were her parents, Harry Swanegan Sr., Mattie Swanegan, and her brother Harry "Donnie" Swanegan Jr.

Anita was a true woman of faith, regularly attending First African Methodist Episcopal Church-Los Angeles, where she was also on the Steward Board, an active member of the vibrant world-renowned Brookinaires Gospel Choir, participated in the annual Back to School giveaway, as well as the Marriage Ministry and College Career Day. 

She graduated from Lincoln High School, Camden AR, in 1968 and went on to pursue further education at the University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff, where she graduated with a B.S. in Elementary Education in 1972. She further enriched her knowledge by attaining a Masters in Elementary Education from the University of Arizona, Tucson in 1978. Her strong belief in education and her lifelong dedication to teaching inspired many young minds during her time at Benton Harbor School District (MI), Tucson School District (AZ), and Garvey School District (CA) as well as Rosemead Adult Education (CA).

In addition to her teaching career, Anita held memberships with various organizations including the National Education Association, the Urban League, and the NAACP. She was a respected member in the educational society, and later recognized as one of the nation's most respected teachers in 2002 & 2003 by Who's Who Among America's Teachers. She also gave her time as an Education Advisor for “PEOPLE to PEOPLE” as well as a volunteer at The Midnight Mission, an organization providing homeless services and shelter, feeding the hungry during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. She immersed herself in everything she did, such as Barack Obama’s Campaign and the schools’ PTA.

Anita was an extraordinary woman who radiated love and kindness to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. Her personality was adoringly described as that of an outstanding mother & wife, virtuous woman, loving, fashionable, and giving. Some of her greatest joys and accomplishments included her two sons Ken (Lara), Sean and her granddaughter Maya. Her unwavering faith, participation, and involvement in church and her children's extracurricular activities were the cornerstones of her life.

Her greatest legacy is her profound devotion to Jesus Christ and her family, which always remained her topmost priority. The impact she made as a teacher has left an impression on many lives. Her love for traveling on cruises with family and friends, enjoying the performing arts and concerts were her favorite recreational activities. Anita's memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her. 

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on January 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM at her beloved First African Methodist Episcopal Church, Los Angeles. During this difficult time, we invite everyone who knew and loved Anita to join us in honoring her remarkable life.

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