Regina Celes Anderson, of San Antonio, Texas was the second child born to CMSgt (Ret) Tommie Joe and Olivia C. Booker Anderson on October 19, 1957 in Weimar, Texas. Growing up in a military family, Regina moved to many different cities but ultimately called San Antonio home for the last 50+ years. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Regina constantly defied the limitations others tried to place on her. Regina earned her Bachlors of Business Administration with a minor in accounting from The University of Texas at San Antonio. She was devoted to her family and Regina would dedicate her life to working 32 years as a grant writer and development associate for the Children’s Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP), a not for profit organization that empowered individuals with medical conditions or disabilities to experience life without being defined by their disability or diagnosis.
To know Regina was to love her (or to be frustrated by her stubbornness!). She was smart, witty, had an engaging smile, and was a fiercely independent woman. She was far more dynamic than can be described on paper and that’s a testament to her character. Although she often reflected upon not being able to use her hands or speak the way she wanted, she effortlessly impacted all those who interacted with her. She constantly challenged limitations; she poured encouragement into others she cared about to do the same and didn’t suffer fools lightly as could be noted through her intellect and her sly and sometimes wicked sense of humor. She loved the arts and was a season ticket holder at the Majestic Theater for many years. Regina loved reading books, and had more books in her house than one would think possible to read. She was adventurous and always open to trying new experiences such as roller coaster rides when she was younger and loved traveling, but she was not open to trying new foods especially if it involved a green vegetable.
Regina was never one to brag about her accomplishments even though she achieved a great deal both professionally and personally. It was not until her final days that she began to truly hear, appreciate and accept that she indeed was an inspiration to her many friends who loved her dearly. And it’s this love that makes saying goodbye for now, that much harder for all of us.
Regina is survived by her sister Redia Anderson of Sugar Land, Texas; her nephew Jarred R. Payne of Houston, Texas; her niece Taylor N. Payne of Austin, Texas; first cousin James D. Axel of Pomona, California and a host of loving cousins and friends who knew her well.
The family asks that you consider making a donation to CAMP in memory of Regina at bit.ly/ReginaAnderson. If you have photos or stories you’d like to share, please send them to development@campcamp.org. Thank you!
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