Anita Jere Cannon-Dalbey

Anita Jere (AJ) Cannon-Dalbey, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, artist, author, and cherished friend, passed away on February 10, 2025. Born on May 23, 1942, Anita’s life was defined by creativity, resilience, and an unwavering love for her family and faith.

AJ grew up in Sacramento, California, before making her home in Colorado, where she spent her remaining years. She was a devoted mother, raising six children of her own, two stepchildren, and lovingly nurturing others along the way. Her family grew to include 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. On August 31, 1997, she married Stephen Dalbey, embracing a life filled with love, faith, and artistic passion.

Anita was a gifted portrait and caricature artist, known for her extraordinary ability to capture the essence of her subjects. In 1977, she became the head caricature artist at the iconic Casa Bonita, where she led a team of artists until 2010. Her artistic talents also extended to crafting exquisite porcelain dolls, many of which were modeled after her own children.

However, it was her work as an author and illustrator that truly defined her legacy. Her first book, Cartooning Faces, was published in 1987, and she later dedicated herself to writing and illustrating children's books rooted in Messianic Jewish teachings. Through these works, she taught children about God's principles, holy days, and the Sabbath in a way that was both engaging and deeply meaningful.

Affectionately known around the world as “Mrs. Noah,” AJ brought Bible stories to life in an unforgettable way. Whether appearing on television, radio, or at live events, she donned costumes and used her vibrant storytelling to share the richness of the Torah. Her heart for children shone through in the crafts she lovingly created and shared, as well as in her generosity—traveling to Israel to bring gifts to those in need.

AJ is survived by her loving husband, Stephen Dalbey; her brothers, Bill and Barry Cannon; her children, Angela, David, Kelly, Michele, Kimberly, and Christopher; her grandchildren, Stephen, James, Cyndi, Tara, Ryan, Brianna, Brandon, Daniel, Jake, Jessica, Jasper, and Georgia; and 12 great-grandchildren: Rileigh, Cole, Adison, Gracie, Mathew, Elisa, Aiden, Skylar, Caley, Izzy, Gavin, and Elijah.

She is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Julie, whose memory remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Her legacy of love, creativity, and faith will live on through her family, her art, her books, and the countless lives she touched around the world.

Memorial services will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Roxborough Park Community Center, 6237 Roxborough Dr., Littleton, CO 80125.  A reception will follow.