Anita (Barnes) Cloninger was a cherished mother whose life was a testament of love, devotion, and unwavering support for her family. Born on November 11, 1947, in Eddyville, Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Benjamin Barnes and Esther (Fralicx) Barnes. Her enduring partnership with her late husband, Leslie Leo Cloninger, spanned 47 years, reflecting a bond built on mutual respect and affection.
Anita's legacy lives on through her children, Paula Neal (Steve) of Eddyville, Eric Cloninger (Libby) of Corinth, Mississippi, and Steve Cloninger (Jennifer) of Benton, Kentucky, and her five grandchildren: Clayton Yokem, Kara McGrew (Daniel), Kinsley Cloninger, Hunter Eaves (Rachel), Mason Cloninger, and Abby Cloninger. She was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren.
She is also survived by her siblings: Benny Barnes (Kay) and Brad Barnes of Kuttawa, Kentucky, and Barb Guthrie of Quincy, Illinois. Anita was preceded in death by her sister, Carol Fry.
A Memorial Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Collier Funeral Home in Benton, Kentucky, providing an opportunity for friends and family to honor her memory and celebrate her life.
Anita's legacy is one of kindness, strength, and an enduring love for her family. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her.
