Anita M. (Stanavage) Darst

In Loving Memory of 

Anita Marie (Stanavage) Darst, a cherished soul who touched the lives of many, passed away on October 22, 2023, at the age of 64. Born on August 27, 1959, in Norwich, CT to parents Robert Stanavage and Sue Johnstone, Anita's journey was one marked by compassion and devotion.

Anita grew up in Granville, MA and attended Southwick High School in Southwick, MA. Later, she dedicated 35 years of her professional life to the banking industry, notably 21 years at CB&S Bank (formerly Community South) in Parsons, TN.

Anita embodied motherhood, radiating unconditional love and boundless support. Her eyes lit up with pride whenever she spoke of her role as a mom, a title she wore with grace. Her children and grandchildren were her universe, and their milestones were met with joy and admiration. Her love knew no bounds, nurturing and cherishing them through triumphs and challenges. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and laughter to all who entered. 

She found passion in the warmth of family moments, the embrace of a good book, and the strokes of creativity in art, all of which defined her essence. Bible study was a source of spiritual nourishment, and Rom Coms were her secret delight. The sun and the sand held a special place, as did the joy of puzzle games and the grace of horses. Her dogs were her constant companions, recipients of boundless love.

Anita found a partner in life's journey with her husband Melvin L. Darst II. Together, they nurtured a family that blossomed with  love and laughter. Anita's legacy extends through her daughters Erica Petrosky and Catherine Case, and her step-children Shawna Johnson (husband Dave), Stephanie Parks (husband Paul), Melvin L. Darst III (wife Jill), and the beautiful constellation of grandchildren: Madden Hatoum, Everett Petrosky, Vinson Case, Sky Johnson, Breeze Johnson, Storm Johnson, Sumer Tanzillo, Prestyn Parks, Cooper Parks, Corey Darst, Garrett Darst, and Lindsay Darst.

Anita's memory will forever be held dear by her brother Robert A. Stanavage, and sisters Patrica Frey (deceased), Sheila DeRisi, Merry Towse, Holly Michaelsen, and Stefanie Franco, as well as sister-in-law Yvonne Back (husband Dwight).

On Saturday, October 28, 2023, we will gather to celebrate Anita's life with calling hours beginning at 1pm, followed by a funeral service at 2:30pm, both at the Mitchell Funeral Home, 15 Park St, Easthampton, MA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests considering a donation in Anita's name to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Contributions can be made securely via

http://www.jimmyfund.org/

or by mailing a check to Friends of Dana-Farber, 450 Brookline Ave., SW120, Boston, MA 02215.

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