BUTLER:  Anita L. Freeman, age 38, passed away Tuesday morning November 3, 2009 following a very brief illness.

She was born September 6, 1971 in Mansfield the oldest daughter of James R. and Evelyn J. (Yeager) Freeman.

Anita was graduated from St. Peter’s High School in 1993.  She worked with Richland County Newhope Industries, and most recently was employed with White Family Differences.  Anita was awarded Newhope Employee of the Year in 2000.

She enjoyed sports and competed several years in the Summer and Winter Special Olympics.  Her events included shot put, running and cross-country skiing.

Anita also loved to go out to dinners.  One of her favorites was Kentucky Fried Chicken, and always was followed by ice cream.

She also spent time reading, bowling, and baking cookies for her family and friends.

A lifelong area resident Anita was a member of the former Mt. Sinai United Methodist Church in Butler.

Anita is survived by her parents James and Evelyn Freeman of Butler, a sister Kimberly Freeman of Butler, aunt and uncle Jenny and Marty Gottesman of Worthington, aunt Janice Wery of Ann Arbor, uncle Robert Baughman of Marengo, along with several cousins and numerous second cousins.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Edna and Raymond Freeman, maternal grandparents Blanche and William Yeager, and an aunt June (Yeager) Baughman.

Friends may call Friday morning, November 6, 2009 from 10 am-12 pm in the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home, where the funeral service will be held Friday at 12 pm.  The Rev. Don Sprague will officiate, and burial will follow in Lexington Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Richland County Special Olympics through the funeral home.

Online condolences may be made by visting: http://www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.