Anita Renee Montanez-Reed

UTICA – Anita Renee Montanez-Reed, age 45, passed away unexpectedly at her residence on Monday, February 5, 2024. Born in Utica on July 8, 1978 to Ernesto Montanez, Jr. and Rosa E. Brown, she spent her childhood in the area, attending local schools. At one time, she was wed to Aric Reed. Anita was always happy, taking a positive outlook on life. She was kind-hearted and had a knack for making the best of any situation. A fashion aficionado, she loved her clothes, always keeping on top of the latest trends. She always put her best foot forward, dressing well for every occasion. She loved music and enjoyed dancing. She enjoyed life’s simple pleasures like letting the sunshine through her windows and checking the weather for the day. A talented cook, she loved a good meal. She was a “free spirit” and enjoyed traveling, especially to Puerto Rico. Anita was most happy when she was surrounded by her loved ones. Anita is survived by her parents, Rosa E. Brown, and Ernesto Montanez, Jr.; daughters, Anyha Brown, and Shayla Sullivan; sons, Jose Brown, and Idris Brown; two grandchildren; sisters and brothers-in-law, Tanae M. Jackson, Candace and David Lubey, and Shayla and Nikolas Lewis; brothers, Teon D. Brown, Ernesto Montanez III, Aaron and Kim Montanez, and Riccardo Montanez; nieces, nephews, cousins; aunts and uncles, Maxine Kemp and the late Sam Kemp, Wilhemina Brown, Richard Brown, Jr.; Jose Montanez, and Eduardo Montanez; great-aunts and great-uncles in Puerto Rico; and her dear friends, Beverly “Seven” Warren and Nessa Bell. She was predeceased by her paternal grandparents, Ernesto Montanez, Sr. and Clara Melendez; her maternal grandparents, Richard, Sr. and Rosalie (Jiggett) Brown; aunts and uncles Willie Otis Brown, Richard Lee; Jose Montanez, Sr., Nerieda Montanez, and Fernando Montanez; and her cousin, Edwin “Eddie” “Miguel” Montanez. Anita’s family extends their heartfelt thanks to the Utica Police Department and Rescue One for their valiant efforts. Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Anita’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Those unable to attend may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84626793409?pwd=KzROaXUvdDUxa3Jvd1p4ZE9YNEhpZz09 Meeting ID: 846 2679 3409 Passcode: 326061

Anita Renee Montanez-Reed

July 8, 1978 - February 5, 2024