Anita Francis Embar (1940-2021)

Anita Francis Embar, an artist, chef, designer, ornithologist, and aesthetic visionary, passed away in Culpeper Hospital on Sunday, November 7th, 2021. She was 82 years old.

Anita was born on Saturday, March 2nd, 1940, in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, to parents Edith and William Embar. She graduated from Lebanon Catholic High School in 1958 and went on to earn a degree from Moore College of the Arts. She majored in Fine Arts.

She grew up in Lebanon, PA, went to college in Philadelphia, PA and lived in New Hope, PA, and settled in Washington, VA. She also spent some time living in Europe.

As a child, Anita developed a keen interest in art and design. She used her innate creativity and passion to influence and enhance the world around her. Her business, Artistry in Design was commissioned for a wide variety of projects. Her work was recognized by various national publications. She also designed living spaces for her family and many of her friends. Her legacy is one of beauty, creativity, and the positivity that she shared with those around her.

Ms. Embar was also an accomplished chef. She used artistic flare and culinary skills to create meals that were visually appealing, olfactorily satisfying and delectable. Everyone that ate her food hoped to have the opportunity to enjoy it again and again.

She is survived by her adoptive mother, Helen E. Zengerle, her adoptive sister, Lynette M. Killen, and her two nieces Bridget L. Killen and Nicolette L. Killenand her beloved life-long companion cockatoo, Bruno. Her adoptive father William P. Zengerle passed away in 2008. She will be sorely missed by her family and large network of friends.

A private memorial service honoring her life is being held in Rappahannock County, VA on May Day, May 1st, 2022-her favorite holiday.