Buena Gradene Anders, 75, a lifelong resident of Comanche County, passed from this life at her home on Thursday, February 22, 2024. She was born August 29, 1948, to Henry Grady Simpson and Lovella Fern Vineyard. Gradene married Sammy Lee Anders December 30, 1966, in Comanche.

Gradene graduated from Comanche High School Class of 1966. While in the early years of her marriage, she worked at the sewing factory in Dublin. After she and Sammy moved their family to De Leon, she worked for their neighbors, the Hamrick's, at the American Goat Society. Later, she attended Tarleton State University where she graduated with both her bachelor's degree in elementary education and master's degree in counseling. She loved her career in education which included the roles of teacher, counselor, and diagnostician. Over her years in education, she was employed with De Leon ISD as a 6th grade teacher, Dublin ISD as a special education teacher, and ultimately retired from the Greater Erath County Special Education Co-op as a diagnostician. She returned to the Co-op after retirement serving as a contract diagnostician and counselor and did so until this past December. Gradene had a special God given talent when working with students, especially those who may have needed a little extra care, guidance, and help.

She enjoyed many hobbies, but her favorite was supporting whatever her grandson was involved in. She made sure to attend all his stock show endeavors and sporting events. She also enjoyed planting various spring plants, tending to the family's cattle herd, sewing, and traveling with her sister, Charlene. Gradene was a loving wife, attentive mother, special grandmother, sister, and aunt, and loyal friend to many. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her children, Hank (Paula) Anders and Linda (Alan) West; grandson, Jake Anders West; siblings, Odessa Ellis, Bobby D. (Thercia) Simpson, and Charlene Simpson (Ricky Gotcher); numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family. Gradene has been reunited with her husband, Sammy, and parents, Grady and Fern Simpson.

Funeral services were held February 26, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home with Pastor Owen McKnight officiating. Graveside committal followed in Hanson Cemetery. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Bunco for support of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105) in memory of Gradene.