Lanita Pearson Anderson

LaNita "Honi" Pearson Anderson, born May 24, 1928, in Portland was the only child of Walter "Bud"
J. Pearson and LaNita Gaskill.

She spent her childhood at the family farm near La Grande. LaNita graduated from Grant High School in Portland, and after years of night school, received a degree in 1972 from Portland State.

In 1949, LaNita married Jerry "J.O." Anderson. They had three children and divorced in 1956.

LaNita's love of books and writing led to a journalism. She worked at her father's insurance company; was secretary of KGW Engineering; started her own public relations company, and wrote for the Oregon Journal and Willamette Week. She also hosted a talk show on KKEY, and for years edited the Portland Jewish Review.

In the early 1990's, LaNita moved to La Grande. After suffering a heart attack, she died on July 26, in Portland, with members of her family by her side. Her remains will be buried next to her mother in Summerville Cemetery, northeast of La Grande.

LaNita is survived by her children, Jennelle Wise; Morgan Ryan-Smith, and Eric Anderson; grandson, Ezekiel Anderson; cousin, Carol Ann Farris, and many close, lifelong friends.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Oregon chapter of the American Heart Association.