Anita Josette Powell

Anita Josette Powell, known by most as AJ, passed away on Monday, April 14th at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital.

AJ was born on April 5, 1951, in Nyack, New York. In 1994, while living in Maryland, she met her lifelong partner, Ron Fletcher. Years later, the couple moved and became residents of Freeport, Florida. At their home, they enjoyed drinking wine, watching the birds, listening to music, spending time in the pool, and having fun with their family, friends, and pets. In 2021, AJ moved to Fort Walton Rehabilitation Center where her favorite things were the color purple, lady bugs, eating candy, specifically sugar-free Werther’s, and sitting in the sun. During her life, she carried a kind heart, a goofy soul, and plenty of good ol’ sarcasm. But above all else, she was resilient; one of the strongest people you'd ever meet. We hope she is having fun partying in the sky with the rest of our loved ones.

She is survived by son-in-law, Jeffrey Solveson; granddaughter, Kate Solveson; grandson,Tanner Solveson; and her dog, Ginger. She is preceded in death by husband, Ron Fletcher, daughter, Sunni (Lalena) Solveson; and her dogs: Cinnamon and Scooter. 

The Celebration of Life and Spreading of Ashes will be held at Paradise at the Outpost, 4576 County Highway 3280, Freeport,  Florida on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. Food will be provided, and drinks can be purchased at the bar. At 2:00 p.m., across the road and at the dock, AJ’s ashes will be spread into Black Creek. Anyone is welcome to attend and say a few words if they wish.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to bring food to the Celebration of Life. Alternatively, any contribution, no matter the size, would help us honor AJ with a meaningful farewell. Donations can be sent to https://www.venmo.com/u/Kate-Solveson; all funds will be used for end-of-life arrangements. Thank you for your support as we navigate this challenging time.

The family wishes to express special thanks to the staff at Fort Walton Rehabilitation Center, including Ashley, Rhonda, Bernice, Melissa, Dorthy, and other friends of AJ’s. Additionally, the entire ICU team at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, especially Cindy, Nikki, Dan, and Rod. Finally, Gentiva Hospice, particularly Amber and CJ (Cythia), for their care and guidance.

Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home. Although a formal service is not planned, the family strongly encourages everyone to share memories, photos, express condolences, and sign the guestbook at www.daviswatkins.com.