Anita L. Hamrick-Edwards

Anita L. Hamrick-Edwards passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 6, 2024, in her home in New Philadelphia, OH, following a lengthy illness.

Anita was an avid music lover and had the opportunity to share her love of music as both staff member and on-air personality for WJER for 25 years. Her dream job as a child was to be an on-air deejay and she honed her skills at a young age making tape recordings with her sister of fake celebrity interviews and studio music sessions. She had fun hosting the Classic Canteen and playing her favorite classic rock songs intermixed with music trivia. She closed every show with a recording of her then 4-year-old nephew saying “Thanks for listening!” One of her favorite professional experiences was broadcasting live from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, OH. Her absolute favorite work assignment, however, was broadcasting from the county fair each year where she interviewed local personalities and youth winners.

In addition to her career at WJER, Anita previously was an adjunct lecturer at both Kent State University – Tuscarawas and the University of Akron, teaching both speech and media classes. She enjoyed sharing her love of the broadcast industry and the important role it plays in society.

She was an excellent guitar player and recently was teaching herself how to play the ukulele. She frequently attended and supported local music events. She often emceed fundraising concerts in the community.

Her dogs meant the world to her and she loved spending time with them. She enjoyed reading and astronomy. She also enjoyed traveling and took advantage of her 3 years living in Germany by visiting much of Europe. She was also a longtime member of Sacred Heart Church at New Philadelphia.

Anita was proud of her academic achievements and received her Bachelor of Arts in Communications as well as her Masters of Fine Arts from the University of Akron while working full time.

Anita is survived by her loving parents, Terry and Rita Hamrick also of New Philadelphia; her sister Lori (Shane) Bean of Las Vegas, NV; her nephew Alexander Bean, currently in his fourth year at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO; and her niece, Allison Bean, a freshman at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ.

The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia has been entrusted with Anita’s care. A Catholic Mass and celebration of her life will be held Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 10 AM at Sacred Heart Church, 139 3rd ST. NE, New Philadelphia, Ohio. The family will greet guests a half-hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow the service in Calvary Cemetery at New Philadelphia.

The family is grateful for the support and kindness of the community.