Lanora "Anita" Dykes, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, in Groves, Texas. Born on October 21, 1940, in Oakdale, Louisiana, she lived a life marked by devotion to her family, faith, and community.
Anita dedicated her professional life to the education and support of special needs students as a teacher with Nederland Independent School District. Her commitment to nurturing young minds extended far beyond the classroom, as she was beloved for her enduring love of children.
A core pillar of Faith Tabernacle Apostolic Church, Anita’s spiritual life was rich and deeply committed. She served with distinction as the Youth Choir Director and a Sunday School Teacher, delighted in singing during worship services, and shared her musical gifts joyfully with the congregation. Her involvement in church music was a reflection of her vibrant spirit and unwavering faith.
Her warm and generous nature was manifest in countless ways. She was an excellent cook, taking great pleasure in gathering her extended family on Monday nights for home-cooked meals that brought loved ones together. Her culinary talents were renowned, a testament to the nurturing heart that defined her. Anita also treasured annual ladies trips, moments of fellowship and joy with close friends.
Anita was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and daughter, and above all, a loving wife for 66 years to her late husband, James Carson Dykes, Sr. Her family was the center of her universe, and her abiding love extended through the generations. She leaves behind her son, Jim Dykes, Jr., and his wife, Rachel of Port Neches; her daughter, Dena Perkins, and her husband, Virgil of Nederland; as well as cherished grandchildren; Brant Dykes and his wife, Payton of Orangefield, Blaire Lewis and her husband, Holden of Nederland, Bailey Romero and her husband, Rayce of Elgin, Christopher Gentry of Groves, and Adam Gentry and his wife, Madeline of Port Neches. Her legacy continues through her beloved great-grandchildren; Colbie, Camden, Bekym, and Tucker. She is also going to be remembered fondly by her brother, Billy Wade Jones of Oakdale, Louisiana and her sisters, Marvel Jeanell Chamberlain of Port Arthur, and LaDonna Fay Chamberlain and her husband, Donald Ray of Bridge City.
Anita was also preceded in death by her parents, James Edward Jones and Atlas Lanora Jones, and her brothers, Edward Jones and Donald Jones.
Her entire life revolved around the values of family and faith, and her memory will be treasured by all who knew her for her loving spirit, her dedication, and her profound kindness. Lanora Anita Dykes stands as a beacon of unwavering devotion—a woman who touched countless lives with her warmth, music, and unselfish care.
A visitation honoring Anita’s memory will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a home going service at 11:00 am, both taking place at Faith Tabernacle Apostolic Church, located at 10169 Memorial Blvd., Port Arthur, Texas. Anita will be laid to rest at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches, Texas, following her service.
Her passing leaves a solemn void, but her legacy endures in the hearts of those who were privileged to share in her life’s journey. May she rest in eternal peace.