Anita Pearl Martin

Anita Pearl Martin, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away on July 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family in Kansas City, Missouri. Born on August 23, 1934, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, Anita encapsulated the essence of nurturing and brilliance throughout her remarkable life.

Anita's impressive educational journey commenced with her graduation from Lee's Summit High School in 1952. She continued to inspire future generations by earning a Bachelor of Science in Education from Central Missouri State, followed by two Master's degrees from Avila University in the Art of Teaching and Guidance and Counseling. Her dedication to education found purpose in her career with the Independence School District, where she joyfully worked from 1971 to 1994. Throughout this time, Anita also traveled across the United States, giving seminars and counseling families and parents, a testament to her passion for helping others find their paths.

Anita had an innate love for teaching and, more importantly, a heart full of kindness and empathy. Her personality shone brightly; she was brilliant and smart and dedicated many hours leading various youth groups, counseling sessions, and individually counseling parents, children, and any in need. Her family remained her proudest accomplishment, a legacy anchored by the love she cultivated and nurtured since meeting her husband, Harold Martin, in the sixth grade. Anita always added a spark of humor to Harold's karaoke performances. They traveled throughout the United States in their fifth-wheel, as well as made several journeys throughout Europe and Russia. They lived life to its fullest, including their houseboats designed and built by Harold (the DennaSue I and Denna Sue II), sail boats, ski boats, airplanes, lake property, and dedicated family nights with their four children during their formative years.

Her zest for life was evident in every endeavor she undertook. Anita found joy in reading books and magazines, listening to piano music, riding horses, crocheting, embroidering, her beloved pets, and spending quality time with family and friends. She embraced every moment with a spirit of enthusiasm that will forever be remembered by those fortunate enough to know her.

Anita is survived by her loving husband, Harold Martin; her cherished children, Alan and Lynn Martin, Susan and Jeffrey Hayes, Denna and Dave Lamken, and Carl and Jan Martin; along with ten adoring grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. The love she shared extended to her extended family and dear friends, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts.

She is preceded in death by her devoted parents, John Swall; Addie Swall Allen; her grandson, Nicholas Roy Martin; and her siblings, Nadine Stucker, Dale Swall, John Swall, and Forrest Swall.

Anita Pearl Martin leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and resilience that will inspire generations to come. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched, reminding us all of the power of love and the importance of compassion.

Donations can be made in her honor to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Hospital for Children.