Anita R. Martin

Anita Rebecca Martin was born on July 31, 1967, in Kansas City, Missouri to Annie Mae and Willard Robert Martin. Being the youngest of 13 children, she was spoiled by her family who noticed her passion and gift for dancing at an early age, earning her the affectionate nickname "Boogie". She received her primary education in Clinton, Missouri and graduated with honors from Southwest High School in Kansas City, MO in 1985.

In 1989, Anita moved to Chicago, Illinois where she worked for several reputable companies and made a lasting impression in the retail, fashion and banking industries. In 2001, she returned to her roots in Kansas City, Missouri to pursue her passion of working as an educator in K-12 schools. Her passion for shaping the minds and hearts of young people drove her back to higher education where she completed her studies as a member of the National Honor Society at Penn Valley Community College. Anita then became a long-term substitute teacher, focusing on the urban core districts of KCPS, Hickman Mills, and Center School districts. She believed that these areas needed special attention and was determined to make a difference in the lives of her students and the larger community.

Anita was a fiercely devoted mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother who lived for her family. Often labeled a fighter for what she believed in, she exuded a warm and loving spirit and touched so many lives around her. Anita was the heartbeat of her large family and those who knew here well will testify to her willingness to love and protect those around her. Although Anita was the youngest of her siblings, her wise counsel and loving heart gave hope and inspiration to everyone who met her. Her students were also an extension of her family, and she went above and beyond to show them love and support. Her strength, acceptance, and unconditional love for all those around her were a constant source of inspiration to those who knew her. Anita was a member of the New Testament House of Prayer, where she was led by Bishop Wilie Loper in her spiritual journey.

Anita Martin passed away on April 24, 2023, leaving a lasting impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing her. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Ly’beria De’Janelle Payne, her sister Marilyn E. Martin, niece Juanita Davis, and nephews Mykyale Mays and Michael Davis, as well as her "bonus parents" Effie and Charles Payne. She is survived by her children Kiesha Martin and Zyheir Payne, her grandchildren Zion and Zivyheir Martin, and Zyheir’Rah Payne, her siblings Minnie Williams, Annie Davis, Olivia Davis, Oscar Davis, Samuel Davis, James Davis, Cynthia Davis, Cassandra Thomas, Mary Ann Davis, Melinda Martin, and Bonita Martin, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

May her light continue to shine bright into the hearts and minds of everyone who knew her, she will be missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace and power our dear “Boogie”.