Dr. Stella Chinwe Anakor, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully at the age of 61 on June 20, 2025. She was born on January 1, 1964, in Dublin, Ireland, to Dr. Eusebius Chidumeand Patricia Chidume (née Omili).
Chinwe’s life was defined by compassion, strength, faith, and an unwavering commitment to service. She studied Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria. When she came to America, she answered a deeper calling to nursing. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and worked as a registered nurse for many years. She served in a variety of roles that showcased her leadership, resilience, and heart for healing.
Chinwe was a proud member of the Nimo Town Development Union (NTDU) and Egbengwu Development Union (EDU), where she remained actively involved in community development efforts. Her generous spirit extended far beyond her professional life. For many years, she dedicated herself to purchasing clothes and essential items to support those in
need—often filling and shipping large boxes to Nigeria to bless the lives of the less fortunate. Her thoughtfulness and consistency brought joy and dignity to countless families, and her quiet giving reflected her deep humility and compassion.
On August 6, 1988, she married her beloved husband, Paul O. Anakor, after the two were introduced in Nigeria. Together, they built a joyful life rooted in love and faith—first in Kansas City, Missouri, and eventually in Houston, Texas, where they made their lasting home. They raised four kids together, and four grandchildren.
Chinwe loved traveling the world with Paul, designing elegant outfits, watching Nollywood films and YouTube videos, and “gisting” (chatting) with her family. She had a unique eye for fashion and beauty, and her creativity shone through her style and generous spirit. Her presence was warm and steady—she embodied grace, strength, and devotion in everything she did.
She is lovingly survived by her devoted husband, Paul O. Anakor; her children, Nkechi Pettway, Ifeoma Okoye, Chinelo Anakor, and Okechukwu Anakor; and her grandchildren, Dean Pettway, Donovan Pettway, Sarah Okoye, and Noah Okoye. She also leaves behind her beloved mother, Patricia Chidume, and her siblings, Uchenna, Ngozi, Nneka, Afamefuna, and Tochukwu.
She is preceded in death by her father, Dr. Eusebius Chidume, and her two children lost in miscarriage, Crystal and Ogechi Anakor.
Funeral Services
A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at St. Justin Martyr Catholic Church.
Visitation: 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Rosary: 10:00 a.m.
Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m., officiated by Reverend Chidozie
Burial: Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery, Houston, Texas
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate caregivers, doctors, and nurses who walked alongside her during her final season. We are also deeply grateful to the friends and family who called, visited, and uplifted her in love and prayer. Your presence brought her great comfort.
Her legacy of selfless giving, strength, and unwavering faith will continue to live on in all those she touched.
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