Anita Marie Baker Wright

Anita Marie Baker Wright, age 87, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025. She was born on January 13, 1938, in Sussex County and was the daughter of the late James Woodrow Wilson and Bessie Maud (Davidson) Baker. Anita graduated from Georgetown High School in 1955 and went on to earn both her undergraduate degree in education (1959) and her Master’s Degree (1980) from the University of Delaware. In addition, Anita was a lifelong learner and pursued advanced courses in diverse fields, including reading, environmental science, and art.

Anita taught at the elementary level for 37 years in various schools throughout Delaware. She taught in Smyrna/Clayton for the first 16 years of her career, and became the reading coordinator for that district. This was reflective of her deep commitment and passion for literacy. For the next 21 years, Anita returned home to Sussex County and taught at Frankford Elementary and Georgetown Elementary. Throughout her tenure, Anita was a devoted educator and advocate for student empowerment and personal growth. Recognizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing, she mentored fellow educators and welcomed new teachers into the profession, providing guidance and support. Additionally, she generously served as a cooperating teacher for undergraduate students, helping them develop essential teaching skills and a deep understanding of the art of education.

Anita embraced the opportunity to enrich her community and pursue her love for learning. She actively joined several charitable organizations, including the Pocahontas Anona Council #11, the Cheerful Notes Glee Club, the Red Hat Society, and AARP, and held many officer positions in those organizations. Anita also loved to be on the water, especially on her father’s boat the “Sea Toy.” She became one of the first female members of the Indian River Power Squadron and was an active member of the Indian River Yacht Club for many years. Her spirit of service was further demonstrated through her volunteer work at the Robin Hood Thrift Shop.

Anita enjoyed facetime with her grandsons, singing, and crafts, including painting, pottery making, sewing and embroidery through the years. She was an avid reader and had a large collection of books that she shared with friends and family. She also had many beloved cats throughout the years, especially Misty, the cat who was by her side for the past several years.

In addition to her parents, Anita was preceded in death by her husband of 16 years, Norman Tracey Wright, sister-in-law Karen Baker, brother-in-law Harry Elliott and many other family members and dear friends.

Anita is survived by her son, Kevin Tracy Wright, and daughter-in-law, Heather (Hendricks), along with her cherished grandsons, Nicholas “Tyler” Wright and Joshua Christopher Wright. She is also remembered by her five beloved siblings: Myrna Smith (Joseph), Wayne Baker (Frances), Allan Baker, Carol Elliott, and J. Denise Baker. Additionally, her legacy will be honored by her numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

The Celebration of Life service to honor the life of Anita Marie Baker Wright will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Short Funeral Services, 609 E. Market Street, Georgetown, Delaware. The family will accept visitors beginning at 10:00 AM with the service starting at 11:00 AM. At Anita’s request, donations may be made in her honor to Pocahontas Anona Council #11 in Georgetown, Delaware to 24270 Kent Drive, Millsboro, DE 19966, and the Brandywine Valley SPCA,22918 Dupont Blvd., Georgetown, DE 19947, in lieu of flowers..

Anita was a great friend, sister, aunt, mother, and grandmother who will be missed. May her memory be a blessing, and may we carry her legacy of love and compassion in all that we do.