Obituary

Luella Marie Anderson (known as “Re” or “Marie” to family) was born on November 23, 1950 in Muskogee, Oklahoma to Charles and Erma Jean Anderson.   Marie was the oldest of seven kids.

Marie completed her early education in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  The family relocated to Tulsa, OK where she graduated from Central High School class of 1968.  Marie attended Langston University but later transferred to Tulsa Jr. College where she obtained an Associates of Art.  She later obtained her Bachelor’s Degree from The University of Tulsa.

Marie retired from The American Red Cross after 30 plus years of groundbreaking work. During her tenure, she earned many titles and wore just as many hats in her field. She worked in the chemistry sector of Red Cross. One of her expertise was managing the maintenance and validation of equipment. Marie was a valued asset within the organization. As the medical industries’ technology advanced, Marie excelled in her career. She was promoted and relocated several times across the country because of her merits and prolific talent for specialized writing.  During her stay in San Diego, CA, she was instrumental in starting up the first Nucleus Acid Testing laboratory for HIV and Hepatitis.  While in Charlotte, NC,  she was a contributor in the procedural development.  When residing in St Louis, MO, she was promoted to Quality Control.

Once Marie reached the pinnacle of her career at Red Cross, she was promoted to a newfound leadership role as a Senior Technical and Procedural Writer with the parent company National Testing Laboratories. Her masterful skill set for specialized writing in Nucleic Acid Testing was implemented for all laboratory facilities in the company. Her spearheading procedural developments has provided a solid foundation in the field for years to come.  Marie is a true pioneer in the laboratory profession.

Marie accepted Christ at an early age but eventually was added to the body of Christ and worshiped at North Peoria Church of Christ.

Marie was preceded in death by her Parents, Charles and Erma Jean Anderson and one Brother, Ponce Anderson.

She leaves behind her only Child, Nicole Smallwood (Tim) Tulsa, OK; Grandsons Timothy Jr, Dallas, TX and Jared Smallwood, Tulsa, Ok; Brothers Charles Anderson, Jr. (Dovie) Tulsa, OK; Fred Anderson, Tulsa, OK; Andre Anderson, Sand Springs, OK; Sisters Symaria Enoch (Harvey) Lexington Park, MD; Wanda McNack (Winfred) Wagoner, OK; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will take place on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 5pm-8pm at Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home.