Anita E. France, (Anita, Ms. Anita), was born in Cleveland Ohio on 12/29/55 to the late Chelcie and Diane France. She was married for 12 years to the late Larry Gardner Sr. who preceded her in death in 2023.  Anita loved her family and often talked about her children Tabitha, Charissa, and Larry Jr and her grandchildren. Anita received her GED in Cleveland, Ohio and later received an Associate degree in Human Service Management, from the University of Phoenix.

Anita had survived several traumatic events in her life, including addiction, for several years. Nonetheless, relief came when she attended Reality Therapy in 1993. There, she received counseling, support, and information on how to maintain sobriety and cope with life without returning to alcohol and drug abuse. After some years of sobriety, she became interested in helping other women who had similar challenges. She got involved in an AA fellowship and started working through the steps of recovery. As a result, Anita became a sponsor, support, and a listening ear for many over the years. Anita was humbled to share her story when asked and was a great advocate for women over the years.

Ms. Anita began her career as a Resident Attendant. She acquired education and learned how to be effective at reaching women through group therapy, individual counseling, and case management.  Anita had an authentic, unique way of confronting unhealthy behavior through her vocal and facial expressions. She was direct, loving and supportive in her approach when helping others. She was a dedicated employee of 29 years as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor at Community Assessment and Treatment Services.  Anita was awarded numerous employee of the month and year awards at Community Assessment and Treatment Services.  In addition, she was recognized as a servant of excellence and received an award for working over and beyond for the women she served in treatment.

She was known for her role in preparing for Gratitude Night in November, creating an evening of food, fun, and fellowship for the ladies in treatment.  Furthermore, she would recruit people to donate goods, services and conduct workshops, training, and events for the ladies being treated at CATS.

Anita was a good listener and a great confidant; when you told her something, it stayed with her.  She gave warm hugs and had a pleasant smile, and when she laughed, it was heartfelt, one that will not be forgotten. Ms. Anita loved the women in recovery and did her best to assist them with looking at self and working toward positive change.

Anita had always believed in a Higher Power and delved further into her spirituality, when she was baptized in 2004 at the Word church. Through this she embarked on internalizing God’s word and nurturing her spirit. She was known for sharing positive quotes, verses, and affirmations daily with family and friends. They were always uplifting, encouraging and sometimes, just what was needed to get through the day.

After surviving multiple illnesses and apparent healing progress, her health took a turn, and on March 26, 2025, she took her last breath. She leaves to cherish her precious memories children: Tabitha Howell-Singleton, Larry Gardner Jr., Charissa Turbin, Vitaliy Turbin (son-in-love), Grandchildren: Jasmine, Xavier, Mariah, Jalen and sisters from another mother, Danita Scott, Betty Weaver, Barbara Williams, Doretha Mitchell, and Ruth Whipple. Along with many friends and family who loved her very much. She will be missed.