Anita Mayree Stephens

Anita Mayree Stephens, 51, of Hazel Dell, IL, died on February 17, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family.

Anita was born on April 2, 1974, in Robinson, IL, to James "Jim" Littlejohn and Nancy (Jayne) Littlejohn. She grew up in Birds, spent time in Lawrenceville for school, and later graduated from Robinson High School. Over the years, Anita worked several small jobs, but the role she treasured most was not one you clock in and out of. Her favorite full-time job was being a mom to many.

If you knew Anita, you know she had a style all her own. She loved skulls, butterflies, and clothes she could piece together into something that felt just right. She could take old things and make them beautiful again, turning crafts and thrift-store finds into something worth keeping. And then there were the socks. Anita was obsessed with socks, the louder and more "her" the better, with designs, characters, and holidays that made people giggle. She had a gift for bringing a little color into an ordinary day, often without even trying.

Anita also knew how to enjoy life. She liked shopping, going out to eat, and she especially loved the Waffle House. She could spend a happy afternoon at the Dollar Tree, at yard sales, or out thrifting, always on the hunt for the next great find. And in the middle of all of those everyday joys, she loved riding the motorcycle with Chad, making memories one mile at a time.

More than anything, Anita will be remembered for the way she loved people. She was kind and beautiful, with a heart of gold, and she was also sarcastic and mouthy in the way that made you laugh because you knew it was coming from a real place. She had a way of gathering people in, and over time, she gained several bonus children, many self-adopted children, and grandbabies, all of whom found their way to her because they felt safe, seen, and wanted.

She is survived by her fiancé, Chad R. Reynolds; her children, Michaele Wolfe, Theresa Reynolds, Juston Jayne, and Lilly Jayne; several bonus children, many self-adopted children, and grandbabies; her brothers, Michael Wayne Travels and Stan Littlejohn; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James "Jim" Littlejohn and Nancy (Jayne) Littlejohn, and by her son, James David Wolfe.

A time of visitation will be held from 12:30-2:30 p.m. on Monday, February 23, at Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be in the Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to her memorial fund, with checks made payable to "Goodwine Funeral Homes." Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.