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Obituary for MORRIS


Published in the Albuquerque Journal on Tuesday April 25, 2006

Anita Morris died peacefully in her mother's arms at her home in Santa Fe on Saturday, April 22, 2006. Anita was born on June 21, 1975 in Santa Fe where she spent most of her life. She was known for her intelligence, her unparalleled sense of humor, and her zest for life. Although Anita fought a lifelong battle against her illnesses, they never defined her in the least. She will be remembered, instead, for her overwhelming wit, charisma and unbelievable knowledge of pop culture trivia. Anita took advantage of every minute of her life and lived it to the fullest. She was an irresistible force whose undaunted exuberance always commanded attention. If you were lucky enough to know Anita, then undoubtedly some of your best memories and strangest stories involve her. A loyal and loving friend, sister and daughter, she will be missed and remembered by all who knew her and many who encountered her only in passing. Anita is survived by her mother, Rosemary Romero and partner, Rob Leutheuser; by her father, Stan Morris and stepmother, Nancyellen Morris, of Eden, MD; by her devoted and loving sister, Linnea Morris; by her step-brother, Caleb Flegel, of Carmel, IN; and most important by her devoted and faithful little dog, Lita Ford; and mentor, Ronnie James Dio. Anita's loving family also includes her grandparents, Frances and the late Jose Erminio Romero of Sombrio, and Robert and Mattie Morris of Salisbury, MD. Anita's many aunts, uncles, and cousins will remember her as the relative who always brought surprises and entertainment. Anita's incredible cadre of loving friends helped her through sickness and high jinks, and will continue to perpetuate the Anita memories. Special friends Jason Crawford, Jocelyn McAvoy, Alexandra Freedman and Kate Alter were often Anita's partners in crime -- and above all were the best friends a person could ever have. Anita formed a lifelong relationship with Dr. Kossman and Dr. Kovnat who were always there to help her throughout the various emergencies. If life had been different for Anita she would have been a doctor - and her intellect was unsurpassed. Anita was supported and loved by neighbors and friends who adored her and made sure she was never wanting for anything. Special thanks to Elizabeth Checchio, Rosemary England, Jim Sanchez and Emily Lucero, Tom Cirolia and Polly Eliason, Jess and Lucca Cirrolia, and Anne and Mark Crouse, Judy and Dick Crawford, Lucy Moore and so many thoughtful and wonderful friends. A viewing is available for friends and family on Tuesday, April 25, 2006, 4:00 p.m. and Wednesday, April 26, 2006 at 12:00 p.m. A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in Anita's memory can be made to St. Vincent's Regional Hospital Foundation. Anita's life was inseparably intertwined with St. Vincent's and its incredible emergency room, and physicians whose capabilities to help others will be enhanced with these donations. Arrangements are under the direction of Berardinelli Family Funeral Service, 1399 Luisa Street, Santa Fe, NM 87505 984-8600.


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