Service

Saturday, September 13, 2025

Family Visitation: 2:00 P.M.

Funeral Service: 3:00 P.M.

Held at

Olive Branch Church

1115 Minerva Drive

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Leona Marie Anderson, affectionately known as Lil Leona, Lil Bit, and Nanny, gracefully received her heavenly wings on Friday September 5, 2025 at 11:45pm.She spent that day surrounded by her loving family. Her vibrant spirit and infectious laughter remains woven into the fabric of our hearts forever.

Leona entered the world on December 24, 1959, the cherished daughter of Leona M. and Ollie P. Anderson. From her earliest days, she radiated an unmistakable zest for life and a boundless energy that became her signature. Her spirited sass was rivaled only by the warmth and love she so effortlessly bestowed upon all who knew her.

Leona was blessed to experience three great loves in her life. With one, Glenn Batteau, she welcomed her most cherished joy and greatest gift—her beloved daughter, Pratoria ‘’ Tori’’ Anderson. Leona truly loved of her family, finding her greatest happiness in their company. Whether at large gatherings or quiet evenings at home, she delighted in creating moments of joy and togetherness. Known among nieces and nephews as the aunt with the best snacks and the most creative activities, she brought a sense of fun and playfulness to every occasion. Her presence lit up any room and her spirit made every event unforgettable.

Leona shared an unbreakable bond with her mother, who was also her best friend. They were true companions in every adventure, seldom apart and often found hitting the open road in search of their next journey. They were definitely ‘’partners in crime’’.

Leona was preceded in death by her father, Ollie P. Anderson Sr.; sisters Helena Annette Jackson, Louise T. Griffith, Debra Marie Lewis-Gurley, and Lottie Bell Anderson-Reed; and brothers Ollie P. Anderson Jr. and Gray Lee Thomas.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her devoted mother, Leona M. Anderson, her beloved daughter, Pratoria Roselee Anderson (Chantay), and her treasured grandchildren: DuJuan Dowdy Jr., DuMikah Dowdy, Elliana Anderson, and Kenneth Luster Jr. Leona is also fondly remembered by her goddaughter, Cle’Etta Marie Jefferson, as well as a large extended family of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Leona’s legacy lives on through her five brothers—John D. Anderson (Morlene), Elotha Bernard, Leroy C. Jefferson Jr. (Audrey), Olliever Jackson, and Wilfred B. Anderson (Karen)—and ten sisters: Beulah Bumphis, Gwendolyn Ann Howard (Troy), Ruby T. Donald, Reva Lee Lyons, Ollivette Reed, Martha Lewis-Hearn, Dwanda Anderson Martin (Lemantine), Ida Eugene (Nathan), JoeAnna Anderson, and Odessa Eskinde (Shannon).