Anita Villanueva Thomas, 91, of Olton, died Monday, June 5, 2023, in Olton, Texas. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 9, 2023, at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Plainview with Pastor Anthony Longoria officiating.  Viewing will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Harvest Christian Fellowship, Friday morning before the service. Cremation arrangements are under the care of Ramage Funeral Directors.

Anita was born May 9, 1932, in Orange, Texas, to Dionicio and Tomasa (Aguirre) Villanueva.  A hard worker, Anita grew up working in the fields, hoeing and "chopping cotton". She loved every minute of it and didn't consider it work.  Throughout the years, Anita used her experiences to teach the value of hard work to her family and grandchildren.  Anita moved to Olton from Kress in 1962.  She loved working in her flower and vegetable gardens and listening to music.  She was a very good cook and her talents in the kitchen cannot be replicated. When she wasn't working, Anita loved to play bingo and go to casinos.  A special lady that everyone loved, Anita will be dearly missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Harry R. Thomas, Jr. in 2018, a son, Ernesto Sanchez, Jr. in 1967, a daughter, Maria Louisa Sanchez in 2004, and several siblings.

Survivors include three sons, Israel Sanchez and wife Emily of Amarillo, Seledonio Sanchez and wife Virginia of Phoenix, and Roberto Sanchez and wife Maria of Escondido, two daughters, Lala O. Dykes and husband Dennis of Flint, Texas and Alice Ramos and husband Gavino of Olton, one brother, and six sisters.  She was blessed with 20 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.