Mary Anita "Nita" Peno, beloved wife, mother, sister, and grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, at her home in Village Mills, Texas, on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Born on August 3, 1950, in Port Arthur, Texas, she was a woman of many talents and passions, deeply committed to her family and her community.
A proud graduate of the Port Neches Groves Class of 1968, Nita was known not only for her vibrant personality but also for her enthusiasm as an Indianette during her high school years. Following her studies, she embarked on a commendable career, retiring after 21 years of service at the Nederland Independent School District, where she held multiple positions and excelled in various roles. Her dedication to education and her love for children left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to know her.
Nita had a remarkable ability to connect with people and a profound love for her family, which was evident throughout her life. She shared a special and inseparable bond with her three loving children, Jason, Justin and Jamie, and was affectionately known as "World’s Greatest Nanny" by her grandchildren, Cannon Broussard, Chloe Baker, Summer Broussard, and Brynn Baker. Her joy was palpable during the moments spent in their presence, creating memories that they will cherish forever.
In addition to her devotion to family, Nita was a gifted pianist, serving as the pianist and organist for many churches over the years, where her musical talent brought joy to countless souls. Her passion for decorating and her keen eye for aesthetics were also notable aspects of her personality. She had a great passion for Friday night high school football, and could be found most Friday nights supporting her Port Neches Groves Indians, further illustrating her commitment to her community and its spirit.
Nita is survived by her devoted husband of 47 years, Mark Peno of Village Mills, Texas; sons, Jason Baker and his wife, Stephanie of Lumberton, Texas, and Justin Peno of Nederland, Texas; daughter, Jamie Peno of Houston, Texas; brother, Joe Kemble of Port Neches, Texas; and her four grandchildren, Cannon Broussard, Chloe Baker, Summer Broussard, and Brynn Baker. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ward and Vance Lumpkin; and her sister, Barbara Tatum.
The family will receive friends during a gathering on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at Melancon~Levingston Funeral Home, located at 1605 Avenue H., Nederland, Texas. Nita's funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Wildwood Baptist Church, located at 98 Wildwood Dr., Wildwood, Texas. Following the service, Nita will be laid to rest at Turner Branch Cemetery, Highway 1013, Spurger, Texas.
Nita's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love for family, passion for music, and a commitment to community. She will be sorely missed, yet fondly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing her.