Nicola Ruth Alford Anthony, 88, died on December 5, 2010 in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

She was born on January 26, 1922 to Robert Brooks Alford and Martha Teresa Alford in Scipio, Oklahoma.

She married Willie Alva Anthony on December 24, 1940 in Memphis, Texas.

She attended Rolla/Wellington Public Schools and was a member of the Stillwater Church of Christ.

She was a beloved mother, wife and inspiration to all who knew her.

She was a timeless worker and managed Central Drug in Stillwater for 15 years. She and her husband Alva owned and operated Anthony’s Grocery, Dry Goods, and Feed in Carney, Oklahoma for over 25 years.

An ardent OSU supporter throughout her life, she cared most deeply about her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. A consummate cook, she cooked Sunday dinner for anyone who might show up at her home. She was the strength and matriarch of her entire family. She was loved and will be missed by us all.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Willie Alva Anthony, whom she married over 70 years ago, her parents; three brothers, Dallas Alford, Clovis Pat Alford and Wilson Parish Alford as well as an infant son who died shortly after birth.

She is survived by her two sons, Dr. Bobby Doyce Anthony and his wife Paula of Stillwater, Calvin J. Anthony and his wife Linda of Stillwater, three daughters, Judy Lynn Conn of Mansfield, Texas, Patricia Ann Keys and her husband Tom of Stillwater and Sherry Sue Longan and her husband Stan of Stillwater; as well as seventeen grandchildren, thirty two great grandchildren and one great great granddaughter.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, December 8, 2010, at Stillwater Church of Christ with Dean Bryce officiating. Burial followed at Carney Cemetery under the direction of Strode Funeral Home, Stillwater.

Memorial contributions can be made to Stillwater Food Bank, 821 N. Duck, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74074.

© Lincoln County News dated December 9, 2010.