Anita Louise Honse, 85, Jefferson City, passed away Friday, June 6, 2025, at the University Hospital in Columbia.
She was born March 9, 1940, to the late Ralph and Lucy (Evans) Branson in Vienna.
She met the love of her life, Kenneth Leon Honse and the two were united in marriage Nov.2, 1957, in St. Louis. They shared nearly 54 years of marriage until Kenny’s passing on July 19, 2011.
Anita had a remarkable gift for turning every house into a home. She was a licensed real estate broker for over 30 years and served the Missouri Real Estate Commission. In the early 1990’s, Anita assumed the position as Director of Student Financial services at Merrell University in Jefferson City before her retirement. As a realtor, she served her many clients with a keen eye for a good deal, but also often bought and sold her own houses. Her spaces were immaculate and beautifully decorated, and unmistakably hers.
A passionate interior decorator, Anita found joy in the details that made a place feel warm and welcoming. She loved traveling with her family, friends, and beloved husband, Kenny. Together they made memories across the miles.
A proud and devout Democrat and Union apologist, Anita always spoke her mind with pride and sound reason. She always played CNN at full volume, much to the amusement of those around her.
Weekends spent with family and friends in Vienna or at the kitchen table playing cards late into the night were among her most cherished times, filled with laughter, love, and connection. Her spirit, warmth, and sharp wit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Anita led her family as its proud matriarch—a role she carried with strength, love, and unmistakable flair. She was sharp, witty, and never afraid to speak her truth, qualities that made her both a guiding force and a source of endless fun. Her strong will was matched by a deep devotion to those she loved. Anita lit up every room with wise words or spontaneous hijinks that brought smiles to everyone who surrounded her. Her legacy lives on in the strength and spirit of her family, and she will be profoundly missed.
Anita was preceded in death by loving husband, Kenny; parents, Ralph and Lucy; son, Kenneth “Kenny” Scott Honse; siblings, Carlene Merrell and husband Norman, Norma Rhoads and Ralph Branson, Jr.; and sons-in-law, John Schaeffer and Dean Kneeskern.
She is survived by daughters, Konny Schaeffer and Susan Kneeskern, both of Jefferson City; grandchildren, Billy Plank and wife Beth and Austin Kneeskern and wife Sara, both of Jefferson City, Clay Schaeffer and wife Madeline and Chrissy Vogel and husband Grant, all both of St. Louis, Juston Honse and wife Angie of Linn, Janae Shackleford and wife Kelsey of Brandon, Fla., and Jenie Call and husband Blake of Russellville; sister, Brenda Forbis and husband John of Byrnes Mill; numerous great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; extended family; and beloved pup, Bear.
A celebration of life will be held from 2 until 4 p.m., Saturday, June 28, at 324 East Capitol Avenue in Jefferson City.
Memorial contributions suggested to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Freeman Mortuary in Jefferson City.
