Anita Cavender

Della “Anita” Cavender, 101, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, at Munson Hospice House in Traverse City, Michigan.

Born on August 26, 1924, in Hamilton, Ohio, Anita was the daughter of Palmer and Christine Buckingham and grew up with her sisters, Joanne and Jane, in a loving, faith-filled home. She graduated as salutatorian of her high school class and married Jack Cavender on May 5, 1942. Together they shared nearly 59 years of marriage before Jack's passing in 2001.

While Jack served in the military during World War II, Anita worked for the Sunshine Biscuit Company. Though she had planned to become a teacher, she discovered a lifelong appreciation for office work and later worked for Singer Company and later Addressograph.

In 1950, she welcomed her beloved son, Dennis (DC). Through both joys and profound hardships, including the loss of children, Anita's deep faith sustained her. She remained grateful to God and devoted to her family throughout her life.

Anita and Jack enjoyed many happy years in retirement at Paris Landing, Tennessee, where they built their dream home and remained active members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She especially treasured time spent with her grandchildren, Todd, Stacy, and Chad, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

After Jack's death, Anita continued to live independently, making new friends, traveling, and embracing life with resilience and grace. Following open-heart surgery in 2010, she moved to Traverse City, where she lived near family and then spent her final 9 ½ years in the loving care and home of Dennis and Jane.

Faith was the foundation of Anita's life. A lifelong member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, she faithfully studied her Bible each morning and attended church regularly. Even in her 100th year, she was invited to read Scripture during worship services. She cherished friendships, faithfully corresponded with loved ones through cards and letters, and found joy in celebrating birthdays surrounded by family and friends.

Anita was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Cavender; a daughter Lucy at birth, son Kenny at birth, her parents, Palmer and Christine Buckingham; her sisters, Jane Hamby and Joanne Wright; niece Karen Leitch; and nephew Benny Wright.

She is survived by her son, Dennis “DC” Cavender (Jane); grandchildren Todd Cavender, Stacy Collier (Nick), and Chad Cavender (Lindsey); great-grandchildren Jackson Cavender, Charlie Cavender (Stansi), Easton Collier, Harper Collier, and Graeme Cavender; and great-great-granddaughter Ivory Cavender.

Anita's family takes comfort in her favorite promises of Scripture, especially John 14:1-3 and 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17, which reflected her unwavering hope in Christ's return and the resurrection.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 25, at the Seventh-day Adventist Church from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:30 p.m. A  chocolate dessert reception—honoring Anita's love of chocolate—will follow.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Brenda from the Commission on Aging, Tamara and the hospice team, caregivers Sally and Mary, Pastor Ben, and the many friends and church members whose love, prayers, and support blessed Anita throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2055 4 Mile Rd N, Traverse City, 49686 or Munson Hospice, 450 Brook St, Traverse City, 49684.