Anita Jasso, 87, passed away peacefully at her home in Galveston on Tuesday, February 26.

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Anita spent most of her life there before later moving to Galveston, Texas.

Anita endured profound loss early in her life. She first lost her mother, Josephine at an early age, her beloved husband, Jesus Jasso, and the following year her father, Henry Barrera. Left to raise two small children, her life was not easy. Yet through her unwavering faith in God and the steadfast support of her friends and family, she persevered with strength and grace.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jesus Jasso; her father, Henry Barrera (Josephine); Adele (Frederick Kelly); her sisters Linda (Ruben Cruz), Dora (Len Slapins), and Gloria (Raul “Bev” Garcia); and her brother Eddie Barrera (Marg) (Faye).

She is survived by her devoted son, Henry; her daughter, Jill; and her son-in-law, Pat Lunar. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends in Michigan and Texas who loved her deeply.

Anita dedicated the majority of her life to helping others. She worked in the restaurant industry for many years before transitioning into public service. She served in several state programs assisting displaced homemakers in reentering the workforce and helping formerly incarcerated individuals rebuild their lives by securing employment. After relocating to Galveston, she worked for Galveston County overseeing a caretaker program. Following Hurricane Ike, when the program was discontinued, she retired.

All Anita ever wanted was to help others and encourage them to be the best they could be. She was a warrior for the underdog — always advocating, always encouraging, always giving. She worked hard and gave everything she had to those around her. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, auntie, and friend.

Anita was loved by everyone who knew her, and our lives will not be the same without her.

May God rest her soul.

There will be no service held in Texas. A memorial and remembrance gathering will take place in Michigan at a future date.