757.628.1000

Anita Lynn Green


Sunrise: December 22, 1962

Sunset: August 22, 2019

Anita Lynn Green, affectionately known as “Nita Skita” by many, was born on December 22nd, 1962 in Norfolk, Virginia to John and Marlvin Stringfield. Norfolk born and raised, Anita’s childhood was centered around the memories she made with beloved family and friends.

As a child, Anita would trek across the wooden bridge in her neighborhood to Chesterfield Heights Elementary, where she proved to be so bright she skipped a grade. She continued her education at Campostella Middle School, where some of her fondest childhood memories were made growing up on Canton Avenue. She loved to play the clarinet, and run and play with the other kids from the many families in the neighborhood. Her father says he would whistle to call her home, and shortly after his call she would sprint down the street —there’s even a legendary tale that one day she ran so fast that she rushed right through her home’s screen door!  Anita’s academic excellence continued at Booker T. Washington High School, where she met some of her closest friends and was a member of the Writers Club, birthing her true passion for reading and writing.

Anita later attended Virginia State University (VSU). There she met a host of friends and became a member of the Essence Sweetheart Club. The Essence Sweethearts were known for being fashionable, and so was Anita. She pursued her love for language by majoring in English, and minoring in Mass Communication. Anita graduated in 1985 and was a proud and well-respected Virginia State Trojan, making an attempt to attend Homecoming almost every year.  She continuously encouraged other young people to attend her illustrious university and other HBCUs, giving back whenever, and however she could.

Her professional career after graduating college was a testament to her intelligence, determination, and impeccable work ethic. She started as a store clerk at “Arrow’s Tape & Video” and later worked at Old Dominion University. After making the fearless decision to move to Maryland in 1987, Anita began working for the federal government’s Department of Agriculture in Northern Virginia, where her older brother Anthony would drop her off and pick her up every day. Her greatest professional accomplishments came during her time at the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), where she worked in the Human Resources department.

During her time at NEA, she was responsible for their annual awards ceremony, national reading initiatives and the Pathways Internship Program. She was well-loved and highly respected throughout the entire agency, forging friendships and influencing young scholars along the way. She often spoke of her appreciation for the leadership of her superiors, Maxine Jefferson and Leon Williams, and enjoyed helping those she worked with. She retired from NEA in 2017 after nearly 30 years of diligent work and success.

At home, Anita’s family brought her constant joy and true peace. She met her soulmate Ernest Green at a party at Rapheal’s nightclub in 1982. At the party Ernest approached her for her number and Anita, being the kind soul that she was, gave him a ride home. After that night, Ernest would often call her on the payphone in her dorm where her floormates would knock on her door to alert her of the calls, and the rest is history.

Anita and Ernest married on October 23rd, 1987, in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and soon moved into “The Marlborough House” in Temple Hills, Maryland. She gave birth to her son Monte Samuel Green on September 20th, 1991, and her daughter Mya Lynn Green on March 10, 1995. Anita poured everything she had into her two children and loved them more than anything in the world. She taught them the importance of speech and language early on, and ensured they understood the importance of having a relationship with God. She was present for every sporting event, ballet recital, cheerleading competition, school program and graduation. She woke up early every morning to make sure that their school uniforms were pressed properly and their lunches were made with love. As they got older, she often engaged in what she called “debates” with her kids, challenging their ideas and forcing them to think critically about the world around them. She was an outstanding mother, who championed her kids’ every accomplishment —big or small.

Anita was known for being a natural cook. Her pancakes were award-worthy and she made the best “yok” out of everyone in her family. She enjoyed cooking for big holidays and was always open to making new dishes.

She loved music, especially from some of her favorite artists including Oleta Adams, Anita Baker, Anthony Hamilton and John Legend. And she was a huge Oprah Winfrey fan. Anita watched her talk show every day at 4 p.m., and enjoyed watching shows on Winfrey’s “OWN” network in her spare time with the family’s dog Spanky Buttons. Some of her favorite movies were “The Best Man”, “Baby Boy” and “A Christmas Story”.

Anita had an infectious spirit, a deep hearty laugh and gave the best hugs. She always gave thoughtful advice and was the go-to person people called for help. She loved attending weddings and family reunions because the events were surrounded by family, and filled with love. If you ever had the opportunity to witness her famous dance move “The Turtle” then you witnessed history.

Her memory lives on through her brothers Ira Dwight Stringfield “Wayback” (Wanda) and Anthony Stringfield (Hollis) and her sister Beverly; her nieces Tonya Stringfield-Howell (Craig), Donyell Stringfield-Sampson (Reggie) and Kaylah Kent-Stringfield; her nephews Anthony “Quin” Stringfield (Kenisha), Dwan Stringfield and Brian Stringfield (Renee); her many great-nieces, nephews, and cousins; And her husband Ernest, her children Monte and Mya, and her granddaughter, Montana.

Anita Lynn Green was our hero. She had a generous heart and was willing to give her last for her family. Her light will continue to shine for eternity and her memory will live on because of the countless lives she touched along the way. Anita embodied love, and she will be profoundly missed by all.

Viewing Friday, August 30, 2019 Metropolitan Funeral Service 120 W. Berkley Avenue Norfolk, VA 23523 Service Saturday, August 31, 2019 12 Noon Mt. Zion Baptist Church 900 Middlesex Street Norfolk, VA 23523 Interment Riverside Cemetery 1000 E. Indian River Road Norfolk, VA 23523

Send Flowers

Condolences(26)

  1. reply
    DEACON CAROLYN HAYES says

    May this dear family find addition comfort in knowing we are praying for your entire family.

    THE HAYES FAMILY OF CHESAPEAKE

    • reply
      Monie Parker says

      I too met Anita through my cousins Shami & Melvin. She was always a joy to be around with that beautiful smile. My sincere whole hearted prayers to the family.
      Monie Parker

    • reply
      sandra b overton says

      To the Green and Stringfield family may God give you the strength and courage you need at this difficult time
      Sandra Bray Overton
      BTW class’ 71

  2. reply
    Marian Russell says

    I am very saddened to hear of the loss of my college friend of over thirty years. I have wonderful memories that I will cherish forever. Family stay strong, because that is what “Neeta” would want. I will keep you in my prayers.

    Sincerely
    Marian Russell.

  3. reply
    Darleen Blowe-Quildon says

    I AM SO SADDEN BY THE TRANSITION OF ANITA. SHE WAS ALWAYS SO FULL OF LIFE. I MET HER THROUGH MY COUSINS MELVIN AND SHAMI SCOTT MANY YEARS AGO. IM PRAYING GODS LOVE PEACE AND COMFORT TO HER HUSBAND BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN & FAMILY AND FRIENDS
    GOING TO MISS HER SMILE AND HER DANCE(SMILE)
    GOD BLESS YOU ALL

  4. reply
    The Robinson Family says

    We are praying that God, who is more than able, comfort and keep you in His care. And may there always be sweet memories of Nita, to bring you a smile.

  5. reply
    Denise Wade says

    I am a sorority sister of Maya. I would like to offer sincere condolences to the family and friends during this time of bereavement. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Please stay strong, and know that God is a healer.

    The Wade Family

  6. reply
    jean Godfrey and family says

    MAY God continue to Blessed the family shes in a better place,its a hard pill to swallow Anita will be missed but God makes no mistake,but remember we will see her again just continue to keep God first.

  7. reply
    Tracy R. Cuffie says

    My deepest condolences to the family. I was truly shocked and saddened to hear this news, and it still hearts my heart today. Anita was the first person I met when we were freshmen at VSU. We lived across the hall from one another. I referred to her as “Erma” because of a sweatshirt she wore once. We maintained our friendship over the years but during the past two years we would converse more frequently. I thank God for giving us that extended time of fellowship. I will truly miss our weekly conversations, her laughter, wit and loving spirit. “Erma” was a God Fearing Woman so I know she is home with our Lord and Savior, Rest Easy Dear Friend.

  8. reply
    Candae Adams says

    Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.

    Love Bridle

  9. reply
    Demetria Robinson Trent says

    I am so saddened by the passing of Anita. I have always had great love and affection for The Stringfield Family and know that their love for eachother will be the strength they need to endure this terrible loss. Anita is the reason I attended VSU and she always had encouraging words of wisdom. She loved her some Ernest and was so proud of her children. Family, May your memories of your Angel give you peace and comfort. Ernest I hope you use your village to help you through this difficult time.

  10. reply
    Diane King Jackson says

    Anita was my essence sister from VSU. I can’t even think of her without smiling because she was witty and fun to be around. My last conversation with her was on January 31, 2019. She called me just to let me know she was following my cancer journey and thanked me for sharing it on Facebook. She said she wanted to do something for me and I suggested she just pray. She chuckled and said of course she would continue to pray but she really wanted to do something personal. I tried to discourage her but she would not take no for an answer. She cash app’d me and asked me to go and get a manicure and a pedicure. My last encounter with Anita Lynn Green was HER ACT OF KINDNESS TOWARDS ME! I dare not say, I will think of her EACH TIME I get a mani and pedi from now on.

    Family, she spoke kindly of you in our conversation back on January. Find comfort in all the beautiful memories. I sincerely regret not being there Saturday but I will be out of the state.
    Love and Blessings
    Diane King Jackson (Herley)

  11. reply
    Retired USA Wallace E. Pretlow & Family says

    We were sadden to her of her passing & we are going to miss Anita so so much. We loved her & appreciated her calls. We will. Keep the family in prayer.
    Wallace Sr , Ophelia and Wallace Jr

  12. reply
    Pearl Garrison says

    With All my ? I’m feeling your pain…Yet I know God is able 2 erase that pain…You just speak what He promised! All is Well!
    ? PGarrison

  13. reply
    Elsie Seaborne Thornton says

    Our condolences to the Green and String field families. Will always remember Ninta as our neighborhood child/ baby, and the “apple” of our eyes. Rest in Peace Dear Ninta. You are truly going to be missed.

  14. reply
    Linda E. Baker says

    Green, Stringfield Families and Friends of Anita, you have my deepest sympathy and prayers in the passing of your loved one. I believe that you can feel the presence of the Lord who is with you and is comforting you during this difficult time. Psalm 34:18 says the Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart. Continue to trust in the Lord for he cares for you and will bless you through it all!

    Love, Linda E. Baker

  15. reply
    sandra b overton says

    To the Green and Stringfield family may God give you the strength and courage you need at this difficult time
    Sandra Bray Overton
    BTW class’ 71

  16. reply
    Patricia Moore Shaffer says

    I feel honored to have known and worked with Anita at the National Endowment for the Arts. She was a kind and loving soul who always brightened a room with her infectious smile and laughter. My condolences and prayers for Anita’s family, who I know she loved dearly.

  17. reply
    JoAnn Carter says

    Praying for the family of Nita Stringfield Green who I’ve known since childhood (and Beverly) thanks to my cousins Lorraine, Janice and Gwen from Canton Avenue. I also went to Indian River with Ernest and the last time I saw Nita was the celebration of Mya becoming my Delta Soror! I will miss your beautiful smile and warm demeanor. God bless your soul! I wish I could be there today but God knows my heart.

  18. reply
    Candise Jones-Burks says

    I’m praying for everyone’s healing, comfort, strength and peace during this painful time. I did not know Mrs. Anita very long but the little time I did spend with her, I’ll be sure to hold on to those memories forever. Mr. Ernest, Monte & Mya, we are family and I love you all forever! If you need anything, please let me know.

  19. reply
    Cheaz Cj Porter says

    Before I began to write this I want to say forgive me Auntie for any grammatical errors I may make. I know with you being a English Major you made it your duty that anyone who you cared about used the correct tenses, subject and verbs had to agree, and “ ain’t “ was not a word. The memories that I believe all of my cousins can attest to will be unforgettable. You literally used to get all of us up when we would visit and we would go to the mall. You would feed all of us and care for all of us as your own. Your home was always welcoming to all, family gatherings were held at your house almost in a religious manner. We never wanted to go and in fact I used to cry tears when I had to. The conversations we had throughout my matriculation of Morgan State University inspired me because you believed in me and was willing to help me with writing papers and everything. I also can remember the last time I talked to you never knew it would be the last time. However, I thank God that I was able to hear your voice and let you know that I love you. It may seem that the world continues to move on but you will forever be a staple in all of our lives. I know that you are watching over us now and I will make it my duty to make sure I graduate in honor of you because you believed in me.

    Love you Auntie rest well!
    CJ

  20. reply
    Jane Queen says

    Sending my deepest condolences . Met Anita at NEA over 30 yrs ago. Still were friends even after retirement.
    May God continue to comfort the family.

  21. reply
    Gwendolyn Moss says

    On behalf of the Moss family from Canton Ave, we extend our profound condolences to the Stringfield and Green family. Affectionately known as Nita to us, we cherish unforgettable wonderful childhood memories growing up together. It was a neighborhood of love where families looked after not only their children, but the neighborhood children, too. The kids were allowed to be kids in a healthy environment and the families provided the love, protection, and security. Canton Ave was the definition of, “It takes a village to raise a family.” It was a constant neighbors looking out for each other.

    Nita was smart, fast runner and always had a candy! (smile) Mr. Stringfield would often provide late night snacks coming in from his job as the neighborhood kids would sometimes be out late on a Friday night under the street lights on Canton. Many, many fond memories we never stopped cherishing. I am happy to read others encountered the Nita we grew up with and no doubt she flourished into a beautiful woman that God used for his glory with her light shining brightly for Him. Love and Blessing , Valerie (Lorraine), Janice, and Gwennie.

  22. reply
    Sheryl Sams-Moore says

    Gone to soon!!! I am praying for the Green and Stringfield family during this difficult time. Just know that each day will get better!!!!!! Love you all, Sheryl Sams-Moore

  23. reply
    Monica (Waters) Muhammad says

    My condolences to the Green and Stringfield family. I meet Anita in 1989 at NEA and I am truly sadden by the lost of my dear sister. Anita had a heart of gold and I will miss her so much.

  24. reply
    Kelli Rogowski says

    I was so sad to learn of Anita’s passing. She was always one of my favorite people at the NEA. My condolences to her loved ones- she was an amazing person who will be very much missed.

Leave a Reply to Patricia Moore Shaffer Cancel reply

.

Personal Service, Peace of Mind, Pleasant Memories

P 757.628.1000 • F 757.545.9148

© Metropolitan Funeral Service