Anita Laverne Buckman

Anita Laverne Buckman, born on August 23, 1930, in Oakland, California to George and Mabel (Kersey) Ritchhart, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, in Owasso, Oklahoma. Her life was one marked by dedication, creativity, and a profound love for family and community.

Anita’s early years were rooted in Lebanon, Missouri, where she received her education and proudly graduated in 1948. Pursuing her passion for learning and nurturing young minds, she earned a bachelor's degree in Primary Education from Missouri State University. Anita began her professional career as a school teacher, where she inspired and shaped the lives of countless children.

Beyond her early teaching career, Anita embraced a life intertwined with her family’s interests. She supported and worked alongside her husband Chester as a horse trainer, notably contributing as an assistant to her husband in this demanding role. Her devotion to the equestrian world was matched by her admiration and affection for her cherished Pomeranians. She was well known as the owner, trainer, and breeder at AJ's Party Poms, where her love for these dogs flourished.

Anita’s creative spirit was expressed in numerous ways; she wrote poetry, filling many pages with her heartfelt verses. She also had a passion for painting, reading stories, and engaging in arts and crafts, activities she pursued with earnest enthusiasm. Crossword puzzles were another pastime she enjoyed, reflecting her sharp mind and lifelong curiosity.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, George and Mabel Ritchhart, her three husbands—Patrick Hayes, Chester Boyles, and James Buckman—and her dear daughter Marcia Webb and son Christopher Hayes. Anita also mourned the loss of her brother, Howard Ritchhart, and two sisters, Irene Hamilton and Mildred Grimes.

Anita leaves behind a remarkable legacy of family. She is survived by eight devoted children: Scott Hayes, Kathy Windmiller, Glenn Hayes, Andrea Jones, Nancy Woods, Barbara Griffith, Barney Boyles, and Sarah Honegger. Her love extended through eighteen grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Her extended family includes several nieces and nephews along with a host of other relatives and friends who cherish her memory.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. and with viewing at the Sien - Shelton Funeral Home, located at 1000 S Lombard Lane, Skiatook, Oklahoma 74070. This gathering will serve as a time to remember Anita’s remarkable life, to share stories, and to commemorate the indelible impact she had on so many.

Anita Laverne Buckman's life was a testament to love, creativity, and unwavering commitment to those around her. Her legacy continues in the family she nurtured and the countless hearts she touched throughout her lifetime. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with respect and affection.