Anita Bell, longtime resident of Oak Harbor, passed away peacefully in her sleep following a long, courageous battle with COPD Friday, Nov. 21, at the age of 75.

She was born March 18, 1939, in Pearsall, Texas, the oldest of 11 children, and graduated high school in 1958.

At the age of 20, Anita moved to California and started her family, giving birth to three children and beginning her 30-year career in banking.

In 1979, she began traveling further north to Whidbey Island, Wash., where she happily grew some roots. Anita retired in 1996 and spent her time after as a waitress, bartender, active community and church member, and pool shark.

She was passionately dedicated to her family and will forever be a beloved sister, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Anita knew no strangers. Her easy laugh and stubborn charm will be missed by all. She is survived by her children, Ty and Debbie Young, and Cindy Wilson and Keith Wilson; grandchildren, Amber O’toole, Jordan Young, Tyler Young, Kris Dillow, Joshua Wilson, Tyler Wilson, Dyllan Wilson, Kayla Wilson and Jimmy Wilson; and four great-grandchildren.

At Anita’s request, there will be no formal funeral or memorial. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.