Mt. Sterling, Iowa to the late Walter and Helen Vehslage embarked on her final journey to be with her lord at the age of 90. Needie, as she was affectionately known to those close to her, was a remarkable soul who touched the lives of many with her strong spirit and zest for life.

Anita’s journey began in Iowa, where she grew up on a farm before moving to Belton, Texas during her teen years. After graduation, she attended the University of Texas.

Anita then moved to Childress, Texas where she met the love of her life, Charles W Smoot. Their love story continued for 60 years. Together, they enjoyed water skiing, dancing and traveling.

Anita was always the life of the party, the spark that ignited fireworks at every gathering. Her sharp wit kept everyone on their toes. Her zest for life was an inspiration to us all. She was also a woman of truth and candor, never shying away from telling it like it is. Her fashion sense was legendary, and she was always adorned with her jewelry that reflected her radiant personality.

After the passing of her beloved husband, Charles, Anita found her second love in Fred Starbuck. Their inseparable bond was evident to all who knew them. Their friendship was an inspiration to everyone around them and their adventures were many.

Anita is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Helen, husband Charles, brother Bill, nephew Terry and her special friend Fred.

Anita leaves to cherish her memories, her daughters Cindy Riola (Chris) and Susan Sims (Robert), nephews, Barry Smoot and James Fletcher (wife Colleen and children Wesley, Rachel and Lauren), niece, Beverly Smoot, grandsons Ryan Carlton (Natalie) and Travis Carlton, eight great grandchildren, Isabella, Stella, Charlie, Ryan, Pearl, Gracie, Waylon and Anna, sister-inlaw Marty, nephew Scott Vehslage (DeeDee), and niece Shelly Allen (Rick).

Anita’s family expresses gratitude to both Cibolo and Kendall House at Morningside Ministries in Boerne for the love, expertise, compassion and care they provided during the last seven months.

A private burial at the Pipe Creek Cemetery will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Morningside Ministries (Loewenberg Caregiver Scholarship Fund) at mmliving.org/donate or 137 W. French Pl, San Antonio, Texas 78212.