Anita J. Pittenger

1954-2026

LISBON — Anita J. Pittenger, 71, passed away unexpectedly Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 in the emergency department at Salem Regional Medical Center after taking ill at home.

Anita was born Oct. 23, 1954 in Sigourney, Iowa, a daughter of John W. Morris and the late Phyllis Jean (Detweiler) Morris.

After graduating high school, Anita furthered her education at Malone College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Art. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Rick.

Anita had worked for a short time teaching art in the fall at Malone College. She was also a faithful member of the Salem First Friends Church, where she assisted with the gathering of the church’s history and taught some of the adult education classes.

Anita was a member of School House Stitchers and enjoyed making celebratory banners for birthday and retirement parties for folks. She also assisted with the artwork and decorations for the annual Lisbon DAHS Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Dinners.

Aways willing to lend a hand to assist others, Anita’s final act was proving the gift of sight through tissue donation.

She is survived and will be deeply missed by her soul mate, Richard S. “Rick” Pittenger, whom she married Aug. 21, 1976; her daughter, Julia B. Pittenger; her siblings, Alicia Wilkins, Paul W. (Myra) Morris and Tim (Kelly) Morris; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at noon Monday, March 2, 2026 at Salem First Friends Church, 1028 Jennings Ave., Salem, Ohio 44460 with Rev. Pete Fowler and Rev. Quint Bryan co-officiating. Private burial will follow at the Lisbon Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Eells-Leggett-Stauffer Funeral Home and from 10 a.m. until the time of services Monday at the church.

The family also wishes to extend their most heartfelt appreciation to North Star Critical Care and to the physicians, nurses, and staff of the emergency department at the Salem Regional Medical Center for their dedicated efforts and compassionate care for Anita.

Memorial contributions may be made in Anita’s memory to Our Daily Bread Ministries at odbm.org or to the Salem First Friends Church.

Friends may also view Anita’s memorial tribute page, share a memory and leave condolences at eells-leggett-stauffer.com.

2/24/26