Anita (Straight Head) Washburn – Waun Ya Win – Pipe Bag Woman”, loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt Anita “Maria” Washburn made her journey to the Spirit World on January 31, 2021. Her devoted husband was by her side as she passed peacefully in her sleep.
Anita was born January 23, 1952 at Old Agency, South Dakota. The daughter of Victoria Straight Head and Steve Red Fox. Her childhood was spent in Cherry Creek surrounded by grandparents, aunties, and uncles who cherished her. She attended school at St. Joseph’s Indian School through the 8th grade. She continued her education at Cheyenne Eagle Butte High School where she was popular for her kindness and beauty. A friend to all, she was honored by being crowned Snow Queen and Homecoming Royalty. After graduating from CEB in 1970, she attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, earning an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. While attending BYU she met her eternal companion Rhae Washburn. They were married January 5, 1973 and returned to South Dakota where they made their home in Cherry Creek. Anita’s life work and joy was her Tiwahe’ of 7 children. She taught them to be proud of their Lakota culture, to value family, honor ancestors, and the importance of education. She was a hard worker, balancing her career with raising children and serving her community. A respected member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, she loved to educate others whether through employment or sharing her talents. She loved her time as Cherry Creek Head Start Teacher. While serving as the Cheyenne River Housing Authority Resident Service Director she was influential in developing the Seventh Generation Youth Council and the Single Mother’s Program. She served for many years on the Tri-Community Development Board striving to uplift and serve her Cherry Creek Tiospaye. A skilled seamstress, she passed her knowledge of sewing star quilts to her daughters and anyone else willing to learn. She valued her extended family and always lent a helping hand to her sisters, brothers, aunties and anyone else who needed support. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, she had a strong belief in her Savior Jesus Christ and forever families. She was able to mesh her Christian and Lakota beliefs seamlessly. She loved her Heavenly Father and honored him by serving others and sharing her powerful testimony.
She was joyously greeted as she entered the Spirit world by those who preceded her: Victoria LaClaire (step father Leroy), Steve Red Fox (step mother Delphine), Eddie Washburn (father in law), Daryl LaClaire (brother), grandparents, aunts, uncles, nephews, and nieces.
Anita will be greatly missed by her husband Rhae Washburn, Children: Condita Washburn, Amanda Oakie (Barry), Quanah Washburn, Crystal White Plume (Dallas), Reuben Washburn, Cherie Washburn, Jerimiah Washburn, 19 Grandchildren, 4 Great Grandchildren, Siblings: Deloria Straight Head, Carla Veaux, Darren LaClaire, Dana LaClaire, Josie LaClaire, Alan Red Fox Sr., Sandra Claymore, Sharon Red Fox, Laura Red Fox, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family wishes to thank the caregivers at Avantara of Pierre, numerous doctors and nurses at Avera McKinnon for their service to our mother over the past months. We also appreciate the kindness of friends and family who have reached out during this difficult time.
In compliance with the CDC Covid19 regulations and the CRST Tribal Directives for mortuary care, a funeral service for family only will be held Monday, February 8, 2021 at 10 AM, at Rooks Funeral Home in Eagle Butte. Burial will be in Cherry Creek, South Dakota.

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