Anita Mills "Nita" Guthrie

04/22/1935 - 04/26/2026

Anita Mills Guthrie ("Nita"), was born on April 22, 1935, in Mobile, Alabama. Nita was

the daughter of Harry Toulmin Mills and Martha Rebecca Collins Mills. She spent her early years in

Mobile before moving to Birmingham during high school, where she attended Shades Valley High School

and was a cheerleader.

She went on to attend Auburn University (then Alabama Polytechnic Institute), where she was an

active member of Alpha Gamma Delta. Nita then moved to Tampa, Florida where she worked for Tampa

Electric and met her husband. They had three daughters.

The family later settled in Winter Park, Florida where Nita built a successful career in real

estate and co-owned a prestigious children's clothing boutique. In 1988, she returned to Alabama

and reopened Martha's Vineyard in Opelika—a beloved shop originally founded by her mother in 1968.

Nita's store was more than a place of business; it was a gathering space filled with warmth,

beauty, and creativity. She helped many brides who still remember her to this day, and helped

decorate many beautiful homes in the area—many still remember her touch and kindness today.

Nita was known for her openness, generosity of spirit, and the gift of never meeting a stranger.

Locals often shopped or stopped by just to visit, knowing they would leave feeling better—it was an

experience to know her.

A 30-year breast cancer survivor, Nita faced her illness with remarkable strength and unwavering

faith. When cancer returned 15 months ago, she fought again with grace and determination. Cancer

did not win—it was simply time for her journey here to come to a close.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Kathryn

Guthrie, Kellie Guthrie, and Kerry Guthrie Ledbetter (Carleton); and her cherished grandchildren,

Jackson Ledbetter, Walker Ledbetter, and Rebekah-Grace Guthrie.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Frederick-Dean Funeral

Home. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to celebrate Nita's life by spending time with

loved ones or performing acts of kindness.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.