Lansing, N.C., October 26, 2025
News Summary
Anita Lee Nutt Greenwood, an influential educator known for her dedication to teaching and community service, passed away. Her contributions spanned education, local governance, and advocacy for the French language, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration for many. Greenwood’s commitment to her family, music, and community will be cherished by her loved ones and those she impacted throughout her career.
Lansing, N.C. — Anita Lee Nutt Greenwood, a passionate educator and community leader, passed away on October 20, 2025. She is survived by her husband, Zeno Dixon “Dick” Greenwood Jr., as well as her daughter, Mary Sinclair Greenwood of Lansing, N.C., and her son, Philip Zeno Greenwood of Chicago, IL.
Born on January 11, 1954, in Galveston, Texas, Greenwood was the daughter of Ray Oswald Nutt and Valeta McCoy Nutt. The family moved to Walnut, California, in 1965 and subsequently relocated to Palatine, Illinois, in 1971. Music was an important aspect of the Nutt household, where Anita learned to play both the clarinet and piano, helping to shape a lifelong passion for the arts.
After graduating from high school, Greenwood began her undergraduate studies at Auburn University, majoring in French and participating in the school’s marching band as a clarinet player. She graduated from Auburn University in 1975 and furthered her education by enrolling in the Masters in International Business (MIB) program at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, S.C. During her time in the MIB program, she worked at a bank in Paris, France, honing her French language skills.
Upon earning her MIB degree, Greenwood worked at a print company in Atlanta, Georgia. She met Dick Greenwood while living in Columbia, S.C., and the couple married on May 31, 1980. Their life together took them to various cities due to Dick’s academic career, including Aiken, S.C., Mission Viejo, California, and Ruston, Louisiana. During their time in South Carolina, their two children were born, marking the beginning of a nurturing family life.
In Aiken, S.C., Greenwood pursued her dream of owning and riding horses for pleasure and competition. Her professional career as an educator began when she started teaching French at Ruston Senior High School, where she inspired many students to continue their studies in French at the college level. Her students notably participated in and won prizes at French conventions hosted by the ALCFES, demonstrating her effective teaching methods.
In addition to her teaching role, Greenwood took on a leadership position with the Council of Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL), underscoring her commitment to promoting the French language and culture. After Dick’s retirement, the couple moved to Lansing, N.C., where Greenwood remained actively involved in community affairs. She was a member of the Ashe County Democratic Party and the Greater Lansing Area Development (GLAD) association. Greenwood also served two terms as an Alderman on the Lansing Town Council, contributing significantly to local governance.
Throughout her life, Greenwood was renowned for her love of music and nature, and she built a reputation as a devoted sister, friend, wife, and mother. Her influence in education and community service will be remembered by many as a testament to her character and commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When did Anita Lee Nutt Greenwood pass away?
Anita Lee Nutt Greenwood passed away on October 20, 2025.
Who are Anita Greenwood’s surviving family members?
She is survived by her husband Zeno Dixon “Dick” Greenwood Jr., her daughter Mary Sinclair Greenwood of Lansing, N.C., and her son Philip Zeno Greenwood of Chicago, IL.
Where was Anita Greenwood born?
Anita Greenwood was born in Galveston, Texas, on January 11, 1954.
What was Anita Greenwood’s educational background?
Anita graduated from Auburn University in 1975, where she majored in French and played clarinet in the marching band. She later obtained a Masters in International Business (MIB) from the University of South Carolina.
What was Anita Greenwood’s professional career?
Anita Greenwood taught French at Ruston Senior High School and held a leadership role in the Council of Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL).
In what community activities was Anita Greenwood involved?
She was active in the Ashe County Democratic Party, the Greater Lansing Area Development (GLAD) association, and served as an Alderman on the Lansing Town Council.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Passing | October 20, 2025 |
| Born | January 11, 1954, in Galveston, Texas |
| Family Survived By | Husband, Daughter, Son |
| Education | Auburn University, Masters in International Business at University of South Carolina |
| Career Highlights | French Teacher, CODOFIL Leader |
| Community Involvement | Alderman, Ashe County Democratic Party Member |
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Additional Resources
- Badger Funeral Home: Anita Greenwood Obituary
- Wikipedia: Education
- Badger Funeral Home: Anita Greenwood Details
- Google Search: Anita Greenwood
- Badger Funeral Home: Community Contributions of Anita Greenwood
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Leadership

Author: HERE Greenwood
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