LaNell (Smith) Anderson was born on February 3, 1944, in Beaumont, Texas, to parents Leonard E. and Fae (Edwards) Smith. She passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at her home in Kingwood, Texas.
LaNell lived a life filled with passion, adventure, and conviction. Known internationally as a resolute Environmental Activist, she devoted much of her life to protecting the living conditions of the citizens of Houston. Her efforts reached communities and borders, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy that continues to inspire others to cherish and protect the Earth.
She was also a woman who embraced life's joys. LaNell loved adventure and sought it with an open heart. Whether exploring new places, trying new experiences, or sharing in the laughter of her family, she lived each day to its fullest. She also had a love for creating and collecting porcelain art.
Alongside her environmental work, LaNell found success in her professional career. She worked for many years in Real Estate, helping countless families find homes and futures. She was a proud member of the Texas Realtor Association and built a reputation for integrity, kindness, and determination in all her endeavors.
LaNell was preceded in death by her parents, Fae Ola Smith and Leonard E. Smith; and a brother, Jimmy Lynn Smith.
She is survived by her devoted husband of forty-five years, Robert Anderson; son, Lewis Beville and wife, Christine of Longview, Texas; daughter, Jennifer Andrew and husband, Clay of Lake Oswego, Oregon; grandchildren: Alec, Mason, and Clare; sister, Patricia "Pat" Wallens of Murphy, North Carolina; and her devoted niece, Brooke Sessums of Kewanee, IL;  sister, Rebecca (Kay) Janosik of Bell Buckle, Tennessee; and a host of other relatives and friends who will deeply miss her warmth, laughter, and love.
Graveside services for LaNell Anderson will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Bennett Cemetery in Apple Springs, Texas.
LaNell's life was a beautiful testament to the power of love, courage, and joy. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who embraced her role in each of these with a spirit that made others feel protected and cherished. Her family and friends will forever remember her for passionate heart, who loved deeply, and always wanted to protect her friends and family. Though she is no longer with us, the legacy she leaves behind continues to shine brightly in the lives she touched.