Obituary of Anita L. Gordy

Anita Louise was born on April 10, 1948 to Margaret and James in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From the day that she entered this life, she shined light, she showed love, she was loyal, she respected, she encouraged, she kept faith and she told her truth. She made the world a brighter place. Anita was educated in the Philadelphia public school system; graduating from Bok Vocational High school in 1966. At Bok, Anita excelled in cake decorating and intramural softball. During her senior year, one night on the Broad Street subway line, she graced and was graced with the presence of who became the love of her life, Calvin George Gordy. It was love at first sight. One of the best days of Anita’s life was July 11, 1970. She joined Calvin in Holy Matrimony. Oh, what a day that was. If you knew Anita, you know that her union to Calvin was one of her greatest blessings, as she would tell you so. The love that they shared was immeasurable, patient and kind. Together, they Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. (I Corinthians 13:7). To this union, two daughters were born: Pamela Denise and Paula Marie. Anita and Calvin promised each other that they would create their life together in Southern New Jersey—and they did just that. They bought land and built their home in Sicklerville, New Jersey—where they both lived until their sunsets. Anita loved to garden when her daughters were young and spent many summers growing most of what her family ate. Loving on her family, fellowshipping, being outside on a warm day, cooking, listening to good music, watching Philadelphia sports—especially the Eagles and the Phillies—laughing and saying that I love you were all a part of Anita’s natural rhythm. Anita was a faithful servant in Christ. She was baptized, raised and married at the former Nazareth Baptist Church in Philadelphia, PA. She later joined and served at Grant A.M.E. church in Chesilhurst, N.J., St. Paul A.M.E. church in Pleasantville, N.J. and finally Sicklerville Church, in Sicklerville, N.J. In addition to fellowshipping, Anita loved to sing to glorify the Lord and served on various choirs. She was one in the dynamic trio, “The Rasmanneers” at Grant A.M.E., and participated in many boards and committees in her spiritual walk. Anita’s work ethic was unmatched. Throughout this life, she held many positions. She was the best at everything that she did. Unless it was out of her control, she was never late. Unless it was an emergency, she did not call out sick. She was the epitome of reliability and dependability. Shortly after retiring, Anita was honored to serve at the South Jersey Christian Academy (SJCA). Starting out as a faithful volunteer, she was invited to join the staff to assist teachers in their classrooms. Her students became her children. Being at SJCA didn’t feel like work to her. Instead, it became another way for Anita to shine her light. In addition to assisting teachers, she prepared lunches. She will always be known for her “Gordy dogs.” She mentored and guided all who crossed her path. She radiated love, warmth, tenderness, structure and truth. SJCA was extended family to Anita or Momma Gordy, as she was affectionately called…and she loved being there. Anita gained her wings to eternal life on Saturday, March 9, 2024. She is predeceased by her mother, Margaret Burkett; grandfather, Benjamin Brown and her beloved husband, Calvin G. Gordy. She is survived by her daughters Pamela Denise Gordy and Paula Marie Gordy; grandsons Femi LaRenz Gordy and Tobi Calvin Gordy; granddaughter Abreya Shayonna Mells; sister Alberta M. Sewell (Ronald); sister-in-law Cordelia Bryant Cunningham (Sammy); brother-in-law Cordelle Bryant and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. To say that she will be missed is an understatement. Let us all celebrate that she is rejoicing in eternal life! Respectfully submitted, The Family