Anita M. Johnson

Anita attended Little Axe School through the eighth grade, then commuted by bus to Norman High School, where she graduated in 1947. In 1949, she married Commie Gillen, and together they had a son, Commie C. Gillen, born in 1950.

On December 26, 1955, Anita married Buford Johnson, who preceded her in death in 2005. During their marriage, Buford encouraged Anita to pursue higher education. While working at the University of Oklahoma, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Food and Nutrition in 1966. The following year, she completed an advanced degree in Dietetics at the OU Medical Center in August of 1967. Anita dedicated 32 years of service to the university, ultimately serving as Director of Food Services before retiring in 1985.

In retirement, Anita found great joy in traveling. Alongside her dear friend, Aylene Bowers, she explored all 48 continental states by car and bus, cruised the Mississippi River on a paddleboat, and ventured abroad with trips to Europe, Hawaii (including attending an OU football game in Oahu), Alaska, and a cross-country tour of Canada from Vancouver to Nova Scotia via bus. These adventures were a treasured chapter of her life.

A woman of deep faith, Anita was baptized in January 1970 at Alameda Church of Christ in Norman.

She is survived by her son, Commie Gillen of the home; her grandson, Commie Gillen Jr. and wife Kelly of Norman; and two great-grandchildren, Raylea and Commie. She is also survived by her brother, Kenneth Linn and wife April of Norman.

Anita was preceded in death by her parents, William Arless and Ruth Mae Linn; three brothers, Roy, Bill, and Tracy Linn; and her sister, Alberta Jean.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Primrose Funeral Service, 1109 North Porter Ave., Norman, OK. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the same location. Anita will be laid to rest at Norman I.O.O.F. Cemetery, 1913 N. Porter Ave., Norman, Oklahoma.

She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her adventurous spirit, and her dedication to education and service.