On Thursday, October 7, 2021 at 4:15 a.m. Anita . (Brandon) Shields peacefully passed on from her residence at the Elms in Macomb, Illinois and passed through Heaven’s gates! Those who went before her include her parents, George and Ruth (Quinn) Brandon and her sister, Vivian (Brandon) Bishop.
She is survived by her daughters, Tawny Matthews (Blandinsville, IL.) and Autumn (Chaim) McGuire (Springfield, IL.) and her grandchildren, Dalton Matthews, Lexi Matthews, Maura McGuire, Miles McGuire and Mikko McGuire. Also surviving are her sisters: Kathy (Jim) Randall, Georgia Troutman, Ruth (Mike) Sheppard; her brother, Jerry Brandon and many nieces and nephews.
Anita was born on August 10, 1951 in Macomb, IL. and was a lifelong resident of the McDonough county area. Those who knew her may remember her spunky zeal, strong will, and wise counsel. These qualities proved instrumental when she answered her calling to serve as a Foster Parent Support Specialist for DCFS. While serving in this role, she found her passion for advocacy and an avenue to share her unique gifts and talents which would positively impact the lives of many. One of her passion projects was to organize an annual toy drive, later dubbed “Anita’ Kids”, in order to help foster families provide foster children Christmases they otherwise could not afford. Even after her time of working for DCFS in this capacity commenced, her desire and commitment to helping others never waned. The Lord continued to bless her with the opportunities and abilites to inspire others and leave her mark on many hearts.
Throughout her life, Anita partook in many interests and hobbies. She had a knack for decorating, crafting and party planning. Her skills with a hot glue gun were unmatched! Many weekends were spent “junking”, where she traveled to various antique shops and sifted through the junk in search of the gems! She was an avid T.V. watcher (Especially fancying the reality genre) and enjoyed eating pizza and drinking Pepsi. But mst of all she found joy and fulfillment being present for the ones she loved as a devoted mother, doting grandma and trusted confidant. She opened her heart fully, shared it frreely, and loved without measure or condition!
Cremation rites have been accorded. There will be no services. Memorials for Anita may be made to the Anita Shields Memorial Fund. The proceeds of which will benefit local foster children known as Anita's Kids.
Clugston-Tibbitts Funeral Home in Macomb is in charge of arrangements.
You may leave condolences and sign the guest book online at clugston-tibbitts.com.
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