Alita Norma Bruner

Alita Norma Bruner, a beloved mother, grandmother, and pillar of her family, passed away on April 22, 2025, in Mansfield, Texas, at the age of 91.

Born on December 17, 1933, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Thomas F. Gomez and Irma O. Ulmann, Alita lived a life rooted in love, faith, and dedication to those around her.

Alita was the proud and devoted mother of Barbara Walters, Suzanne Borde, Cindy Littlejohn, and Thomas Borde. She was preceded in death by her beloved son Gary Borde. Her legacy lives on in her ten cherished grandchildren—Heather Farah, Brittany Lang, Magean Davis, Christie Willett, Brandi Walters, Bryan Borde, Brandon Borde, Tracy Link, Steven Borde, and Donny Littlejohn—19 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren, who will all remember her gentle spirit and steady strength.

She is also survived by her dear sisters, Natalie Thelen and Janice Wilde, who brought her joy and companionship throughout her life.

Alita’s strong faith was evident in the years she spent working in the kitchen at Lake Arlington Baptist Church, where she served her community with humility and heart.

Her greatest joys were found in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, baking, walking outdoors, and especially watching finch birds in her yard. Her love for nature was displayed in the many birdhouses she kept and her quiet appreciation for wildlife. Family was everything to Alita. She was the glue that held generations together, always ready with a warm meal, a kind word, and a listening ear. She also loved watching Wheel of Fortune, and her laughter and quick wit brought happiness to every gathering.

Alita will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will continue to live on in the lives she touched and the love she so freely gave.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a local animal shelter or to an animal welfare organization of your choice.