Anitra Flowers

Today we honor the remarkable life of Anitra, a woman whose spirit radiated grace, love, and unwavering faith. Born on June 26, 1954, to the esteemed Dr. Robert and Superintendent Victoria Thrash, Anitra was the cherished middle child and only daughter, destined to leave an indelible mark on every life she touched. 

Anitra's spiritual journey began at the tender age of nine in 1963, when she found salvation at the Apostolic Faith home assembly church under the pastorate of the late Bishop F.I. Douglas. From that moment, her life became a testament to her deep devotion to the Lord, a passion that manifested in every facet of her being. She possessed a profound love for music and an extraordinary flair for fashion. As a young girl, her melodious voice graced the church choir, and her graceful presence served as an usher. Her Sundays were always a grand affair, meticulously prepared for; by Saturday, she would have sewn her unique outfit, complemented by shoes, a purse, and accessories thoughtfully chosen with her late father, Dr. Robert Thrash, ensuring a truly one-of-a-kind ensemble. 

Her creative spirit continued to flourish as she embraced motherhood. After marrying and welcoming her three beloved children, La Rhonda, Tynisa, and Rodney, Anitra's needles and threads were often busy crafting their garments. She was a familiar and inspired presence in fabric havens like Joann's and Michael Levine's, or perusing clothing stores for the spark of her next creation. Though her fervent passion for sewing eventually softened, her inherent love for fashion remained a vibrant constant throughout her life. 

In 1982, Anitra joined her late mother, Superintendent Pastor Victoria Thrash, at Christ Centered Daycare, which later evolved into Christ Centered Children's University. Here, her innate love for children and education blossomed. For nearly fifteen years, she dedicated herself to teaching various grades, nurturing young minds with wisdom and compassion. Her commitment to education extended beyond this institution, leading her to direct YMCA's and several private schools across Southern California and Memphis, Tennessee. Anitra was instrumental in the establishment and accreditation of numerous educational institutions in Victorville, Palmdale, and Memphis, earning her a reputation as an exceptional educator. She embraced every interaction as a teaching moment, whether with family, students, friends, or even a fleeting acquaintance, always imparting valuable insights. 

Anitra's faith was not only foundational but vibrantly expressive. She lent her voice to the revered gospel group, "The Breeze," a Christ centered favorite many years ago. Her presence on praise and worship teams enriched nearly every church she attended. She found a spiritual home at Christ Centered Apostolic Church. She attended Greater Imani in Memphis for years, and later, at Morning Star Church under the leadership of Pastor Terrance Sesley, was where she truly thrived, deeply loving the Lord, her church community, and its people. 

Her name, Anitra, meaning "grace," perfectly embodied her character. She extended grace to everyone, offering unwavering encouragement. To be in her presence was to feel uplifted; it mattered not who you were, for she would call you "beautiful" and elevate not just your self-esteem, but your profound identity in Christ. 

Anitra's journey of love was a testament to divine timing and restoration. In 1973, she was engaged to the love of her life, Rodney Flowers, though their union did not materialize at that time. She married in 1975 and welcomed her three children. Yet, after years of divorce and healing, 1993 marked a beautiful restoration as the Lord reunited her love story with Rodney Flowers. Through this blessed union, Anitra joyfully embraced six bonus children. In 2007, Anitra and Rodney moved to Memphis, Tennessee. She often expressed a wistful desire for the states to be closer, longing to be near her children, friends, and family in California while cherishing her connections in Memphis - often joking "Let's push the states together." She adored visiting her children and grandchildren, always present for their most significant milestones. In December 2024, Anitra returned to California, rejoining her cherished children, grandchildren, family, and friends. She became a member of Patria (formerly ALFC) in Rancho Cucamonga that same month, relishing the vibrant atmosphere of praise and worship.

Anitra was universally recognized as a steadfast woman of God: thoughtful, encouraging, generous, supportive, and incredibly knowledgeable. Those who knew her intimately will forever recall her affirming declarations: "God is faithful" and "Be encouraged." Her profound faith remained unshakeable even in the face of significant medical battles, demonstrating the extraordinary strength of her belief. On Friday, February 27, 2026, Anitra closed her eyes on earth and opened them with her lord and savior. She lived by God's promise, "There would be glory after this," and today, she walks in that very glory. We give all glory to God for such a beautiful gift. 

Among Anitra's cherished sayings were: "There will be glory after this," "God is going to turn it around," "We don't do pretentious," "God is faithful," "Be encouraged," "Go where you are celebrated not merely tolerated," "Laughter does good like medicine and I take my medicine everyday," and "I love you a zillion." Her favorite scriptures, which resonated deeply with her spirit, were: "And I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten..." (Joel 2:25-26) and "Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth..." (Isaiah 43:19). 

Anitra leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and inspiration, cherished by her devoted husband, Rodney Flowers; her children, La Rhonda, Tynisa (Freddie), and Rodney; and her grandchildren, Timothy, Tiffany, and Tytus. She is also lovingly remembered by her bonus children, Vashtie (Tammy), Callie (Terrance), Rodrick (Tina), Dionna, and Ronnie; mother-in-law Ruby Flowers. She was preceded in glory by her parents; father-in-law Stanley Flowers and bonus son Rodney Deshay. Her memory lives on through her brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert (Sandra) and Victor (Shawn), and a host of bonus grandchildren, great grandchildren, adoring cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends, all of whom were touched by her boundless grace. 

Anitra's light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts, a beacon of faith, love, and enduring grace. If you knew Anitra, she would blow you a kiss and hold your hand close to her. On behalf of Anitra, thank you. Here's your kiss.