Anatalia Maria “Anita” Thorp, 88, of New Haven, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Sunday, April 19, 2026. Born in Pampanga, Philippines, Anita was a daughter of the late Nazerio Bautista and Maria (Milagros Guillermo) Manabat.
Anita married the love of her life, Donald Thorp, on September 7, 1959. They started a family in the Philippines while Don was in the US Navy, then added to it in Hillsdale, MI before settling down in New Haven. Together they shared a life filled with love and adventure until his passing on October 3, 2000. During their 41 years together, they raised a beautiful family while being strongly involved in their community.

Anita worked as a talented seamstress for Bennett’s Clothing for many years, where she developed her taste for retail therapy. She was a woman of many gifts, but none shined brighter than her cooking. She couldn’t boil a potato when she came to the US, but her passion led her to being known as the best cook. Preparing meals was her way of expressing love, and her family and friends were often blessed by her generosity around the table.

Family meant everything to Anita. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who never missed an opportunity to support and encourage her grandchildren. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, playing BINGO, dancing, and spending time surrounded by those she loved. Many were blessed to have her as a travel companion, whether around town or halfway around the world.
A woman of deep faith, Anita was a devoted member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in New Haven, where she shared her love of music as part of the choir. Anita was also a praying member of the Legion of Mary, and a longtime member of the Filipino-American Society, maintaining strong ties to her heritage and faithful community.

She is survived by her son, John (Pam) Thorp; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and her siblings Maria, Simfrosa, Gertrudis, Lilia, Mario and Marino.

Anita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Wayne Thorp; daughters, Donna Loveless and Mary Franco; and her siblings Damian, Teresa, Aida, and Antonio.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 943 Powers Street, New Haven, with calling one hour prior. Calling will also take place on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a Rosary Service at 3:30 p.m., at FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton Street. Burial will follow at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in New Haven.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church – New Haven.