Anita Louise Cooper, 77, of Leesburg, FL, went to be with the Lord on March 17, 2015 with her loving family by her side. Anita was born on January 5, 1938 in Fort Wayne, IN to her parents Ray and Cecil Ward. She and her husband Harold moved to Leesburg, FL in 2004 from Fort Wayne, IN. Anita was an active member of First Baptist Church here in Leesburg, FL. She volunteered at the pregnancy care center and was a teacher at First Academy. She earned her Master’s degree in Education and also her Bachelor’s degree in Social Services. Anita’s first job was as a Parole Officer in Dayton, Ohio. Later, she enjoyed being a librarian and a substitute high school teacher. Anita had many hobbies, some of her favorites were swimming, sewing, volunteering, photography, her dogs and bird watching. Anita has touched many lives and will be deeply missed. She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years: Harold J. Cooper; Daughters: Diane (Steve) Martin, of Monroeville, IN, Caren Craig, of Bern IN, and Donna (Calvin) Kesterson, of Clermont, FL; Sister Barbara (Frank) Skees, of Fort Wayne, IN; Four Granddaughters; Two Great-Grandsons; and many Nieces and Nephews. A memorial service will be held for Mrs. Anita L. Cooper at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First Baptist Church, 220 N 13th St, Leesburg, FL 34748 or by phone at (352) 360- 0081.
