Mary Anita Looney 85, of Springfield, went to her Heavenly home on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. She was born on October 19, 1938, in Pearl, MO to Hobart Arthur and Elsie May (Conrad) Sewell.

Anita was a lifelong area resident. She was saved at a young age during Bible School in Cave Springs. Anita graduated from Willard High School in 1956 and was active in choir and band, where she played the clarinet. She was a talented musician, also playing the piano. Anita attended Draughons Business School and went to work at Reyco Industries. In 1989, Anita began her career with SMSU in the marketing and management department. She was a second mama to many of her graduate students and they all loved her dearly. Anita was also a great cook. She was known for her perfectly round and soft chocolate chip cookies as well as her pimiento cheese dip and apple pies that she kept frozen ready to give away. She was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan and knew all of the players names. Above all, Anita cherished her grandsons and being involved in their lives to the greatest extent.  She enjoyed being with people, telling stories and get-togethers at her house.  She will be greatly missed by all. "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21

Anita is survived by her daughter, Cathy Bliss; grandchildren, Zach Looney, Ethan Bliss, Brodie Todd; sister, Audrey Keltner; nephews and nieces, other family and friends.

Anita was preceded in death by her parents; son, Gregory Scott Looney; and brother, Wilbur Clovis Sewell.

Visitation will be 5:00PM until service time, Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove. Funeral services will begin at 7:00PM.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to St. Jude's Hospital and may be left at the funeral home.