Anita A. Sundelin, 49, of Jamestown, died peacefully on Thursday, April 25, 2013. Anita was the beloved daughter of John and Anita Harrell of Rehoboth, MA. She is survived by her cherished daughter and son-in-law, Celia and Brad Laliberte of Bremerton, WA, her granddaughter, Molly Anita Laliberte, her sister and brother-in-law, Laura Harrell and George Shaheen, and her nephew, Caleb Shaheen.
Anita was deeply loved by her family and friends. Among her passions, she loved animals, music, literature, the theater, and travel. Anita grew up in Bristol and graduated from Our Lady of Fatima High School in Warren. As a young wife and mother, Anita toured Europe with her daughter, Celia. She studied Anthropology at Rhode Island College, culminating these studies with an expedition to Egypt. Anita enjoyed a successful career as the Director of Senior Services for the town of Upton, MA. Her family remembers her dedication to her clientele and her determination to provide resources to those in need. Anita courageously fought for the human rights of the elderly and remained a brave advocate throughout her life. Anita was among the first Senior Service Directors to be awarded certification by the state of Massachusetts.
A memorial service will be held on Anita’s birthday, May 11 at 10:00 AM in St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 87 Narragansett Avenue, Jamestown, RI 02835. In lieu of flowers, donations in Anita’s memory may be made to St. Matthew's Episcopal Church or Visiting Nurse Services of Newport and Bristol Counties. 1184 East Main Road, Portsmouth, RI 02871.