Anita S. Creviston

Anita S. Creviston November 30, 1933– August 16, 2026 Anita, daughter of Fritz and Bertha (Stephens) Bear, was born on November 30, 1933, in Marshville, Missouri. She departed this life on Sunday, August 16, in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of ninety-two. She grew up in Springfield, Missouri and attended Central High School. One of eight children, she had a close relationship with her siblings and especially bonded with her father over their shared love of crosswords; his homemade crossword dictionary was one of her prized possessions. Anita was always an avid sports fan, mystery reader, and movie lover. In 1958 she married James Walsh of Springfield, whom she worked with at the Gillioz Theater and corresponded with during his service in the U.S. Navy. They shared fond memories including their weekly outings on Sundays, when the family would all go to the lake, have picnics, and spend time together. When James suddenly passed away in 1969, Anita was a young mother caring for eight children. Her quiet determination and grit during this time was a testament to her strong character and resilient spirit. In 1973, Anita met and married Tom Creviston after a whirlwind romance. She always described him as the love of her life. In 1977, they moved to Hot Springs, Arkansas where they owned and operated the Park Avenue Motel. Even as a business owner, she was a devoted homemaker and involved in her community. She was active on the PTO and a member of the YMCA board in Hot Springs. She was always considered someone her community could count on. Family time was important to Anita, and she took great pride in the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. She saved letters, newspaper clippings, magazine articles, and other family keepsakes, cherishing these reminders of the people she loved. Anita was always active playing tennis, bowling competitively, practicing yoga, and later in life, riding the stationary bike and stretching. She was an avid Razorback fan who rarely missed a game, whether it was football, basketball or baseball; she loved watching pro football too, especially her Kansas City Chiefs. She loved to garden, play cards, and especially enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Anita had a zest for life and was known for her laugh, earning the nickname “Haha.” She was a devout Catholic and was always a committed member of her church community. After moving to Little Rock, Arkansas in 2012, she found a welcoming senior group at Holy Souls Catholic Church where she made fast and lasting friends. Anita is survived by her sister Veda; her sons, Michael (Patti), Timothy (Danielle), John, and Kevin (Brett); her daughters, Johanna, Elizabeth (Ted), and Susan; her grandchildren, Mike (Brittney), Kiira, Bryce, Rachel, and Nina (Freidy); and her great grandchildren, Naila, Aaliyah, James, Joseph, Myles, and Ozra. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fritz and Bertha Bear; her brothers Richard and Fritz; her sisters Kathleen, Betty, Rita, and Coleen; her husband’s James Walsh and Tom Creviston; her sons Patrick, James, and Thomas; and her grandson, JJ. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to those who cared for Anita in the last years of her life, with special thanks to De’Angela (Dee) Reed. You brought her much joy and comfort. Anita will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Services will be held on Thursday, August 27 at Holy Souls Catholic Church in Little Rock. Rosary service 1:00 Funeral mass 1:30

Anita S. Creviston

November 30, 1933 - August 16, 2026