Anita Diane Nowell

There is an Appointed Time Anita Diane MacFarlane Nowell Anita Diane (MacFarlane) Nowell was born on July 26, 1942 to Victor and Ada P. MacFarlane in Dayton, Ohio. She was the oldest of 7 children – 4 brothers and 3 sisters. Known affectionately as Diane to her family, she was an adventuresome and fearless child. She attended Columbus Public Schools and graduated from East High School in 1960. She later attended Columbus State College to further her education. As a child, she attended her family’s church, St. Paul A.M.E. in Columbus, Ohio. After working for the federal government for several years, she pursued her passion of caring for others. She maintained a day care center in her home, which brought her in contact with numerous people that have become her extended family. She loved teaching and guiding the toddlers, and was a stickler for discipline and respect. Throughout her time with the children, she never hesitated to make certain they had all the educational supplies they needed – no matter what the cost. Anita was the great granddaughter of Isabelle Ridgway (Isabelle Ridgway Care Center) and embodied the same selfless caring and charitable nature for people exhibited by her great grandmother. When others required food, clothing or money, she responded to their needs – in spite of the sacrifice to her. She understood her Purpose and knew early on that her mission in life was to serve others. This was sustained by an unshakeable faith and uncompromising compassion. She was devoted to her church, People With A Vision Ministry, and its pastor, Stanford Crockett. She was a member for more than 20 years. It was with her church family, where she recognized that we each have an appointed time; words that would prove to be a guiding light during challenging times. Anyone who knew Anita was well aware of the fact that her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were the highlight of her life. They are her legacy. There is nothing she would not do for them – even if it meant giving them her last dime. Each time there was a new arrival in her family, she completely embraced this new life. When she left the world of childcare, she became a home healthcare aide throughout the Greater Columbus Area, which she served until the end. Her patients were the infirmed, disabled or those who simply could not manage daily activities. In spite of her own challenges, she always mustered the strength to care for others – including those who lived in her building. She was also renowned for her love and ability to cook. She enjoyed nothing more than to make her signature cakes and favorite dishes and share it with friends, family and even strangers. Anita was preceded in death by her mother Ada P. Williams and stepfather – Roger Williams. Father – Victor MacFarlane and stepmother Alsenia MacFarlane; brother – David C. MacFarlane; sister – Linn MacFarlane. She leaves to cherish her memory – sons: Eric A. Blake (Terri); Clinton L. Bryant (Lolita) and Carl Blake (Angela); daughters – Michele James (Bill) and Pamela Blake as well as 17 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. Brothers – Roger Williams (Diane); Victor MacFarlane II and Victor Hughes; sisters – Drina Smith and Virginia Collins (Eugene) and numerous cousins/family members and friends. The current Pandemic restricts visitation and a service that would accommodate all of those that wish to pay their final respect to our mother and sister in Christ. At our mother’s request, she will be cremated upon completion of the service. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the following: Corban Commons Senior Community, 3426 Corban Commons Drive, Columbus, OH 43219 Attn: Ms. Vanessa The family wants to thank all for their prayers, thoughts and expressions of love and concern. Lovingly Submitted The Family