She is survived by her husband, Wayne Gaudreau; sister Sherry Stallings, her children TracieLynn Rothwell, Lori Snowden, Amy Hicks, Kelly Gaudreau, Jana Burris, Kristin Hanes, and Connie Gaudreau; grandchildren Daniel Shepherd, Katie Shepherd, Christopher Crouch, Cade Snowden, Courtney Snowden, Max Fischer, Lily Dodds, Molly Money, Ben Burrus, Ellie Burrus, Hannah Turbeville, Brooks Bell, Bentley Bell; great grandchildren Logan, Remy, and Henry Shepherd, Crosby Crouch, and Pearson Copeland.
Anita was born in Houston, Texas and attended Stephen F Austin State University.
She moved to Greenville in 1972, and began a crafting studio out of her garage on Old Mill Road. She later worked at The Herald Banner as a sales person and later as a feature writer, focusing on cooking, decorating, and home renovations.
She bought and renovated a 1911 farmhouse on Park Street in Greenville, which was her home for many years.
Anita started many local businesses including the Copper Kettle restaurant in the Uptown Forum, Stone Marker Antiques, and Fancyworks Needle Arts Studio.
In addition to being an entrepreneur, Anita was very talented in needlework and fabric arts. She attended the Royal School Of Needlework in Surrey, England on two occasions, learning hand embroidery techniques from master embroiderers. She later focused on quilting, and was a member of both the Cotton Patch Quilt Guild and Strippers quilting group.
One of her other many talents was gardening, and garden design. She was a Hunt County Master Gardener and her glorious garden was a great source of pride. Many brides and graduates requested the use of her garden for photos, which she was happy to provide.
Anita was also known for her lavish Christmas traditions. Her home on historic Park Street was one of the most popular homes on the annual Tour of Homes, and her Christmas morning breakfasts were legendary.
She leaves behind a legacy of her large family, her love of good food and beautiful interiors, and her inspiring generosity to her community.
Condolences(2)
Beth and John Henry
Morgantown, WV Sunday, January 18, 2026 We’re so sorry, Amy. The two of you shared a fierce love of which can never be replaced. Im sure she was as sweet as the delicious looking dessert that’s in front of her (You look so much like her!!)!! Coping will be your challenge. It’s hard work. Takes time! ❤️Marsha Jean Billingsley
Frankston, TX Saturday, January 17, 2026 May you find peace and comfort knowing that Nitie is safe in the arms of Jesus free of pain. Nitie and you girls continued to be part of our family even though our lives had changed. Jeanie and Unk were there to me Nitie when she crossed over Jordan. Love you all.