Anita Reliford, age 87, of Lancaster, formerly of Nelsonville, Ohio, passed away November 15, 2025, in Lancaster, Ohio.

She was the daughter of Joseph and Phyllis Wend Schenz.

Anita was a member of the First Presbyterian Church for more than 50 years where she was a Sunday School teacher, sang in the choir, and served as both a Deacon and Elder. Anita also served as Clerk of Session with the church for 15 years. She Also provided pulpit fill on occasion

Anita worked for Nelsonville-York Schools for more than 40 years where she was a first grade teacher, teacher of the gifted, and served as Director of Special Programs.

She served as a member of Athens County Library Board; member of the 317 Board, and was an avid reader and belonged to a book club with many friends.

Anita is survived by her son, Joseph (Jennifer) Reliford; granddaughter, Amanda (Amy) Reliford; grandson, Jesse (Kaitlyn) Reliford; great-grandchildren Chase, Adrian, Henry, Charlie, Isaac, and Bryson; several cousins, nieces and nephews; sister, Judy Thompson; daughter-in-law, Angela Reliford; sister-in-law Helen Schenz; and a special friend, Rick Warren.

Anita was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Bob Reliford; parents; 2 sons, Bob Anthony and Robert Morgan; brothers, Phillip Schenz, Neil Schenz; sister Joyce Smart; and brothers-in-law, Jack Thompson and Eldon Smart.

Following Anita’s wishes, she will be cremated with graveside services held on Dec. 9, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Connett Cemetery in Nelsonville, Ohio with family and friends present at the grave site. There will be a dinner following the service at the Presbyterian Church, 69 E. Washington St. Nelsonville, Ohio 45764. 

Arrangements are by Warren-Brown Funeral Home in Nelsonville.