Anita Gordon's Life Story
At the tender age of six, in the year 1935, Anita Gordon made a significant move with her family from Texas to Hollywood, a decision that would ultimately shape her future as a successful child star. As a teenager, she achieved immense fame through her singing talents on network radio, becoming a regular on the popular show of ventriloquist Edgar Bergen. It is rumored that his famous dummy, Charlie McCarthy, had a secret crush on her.
Anita's impressive vocal range and talent were showcased in the 1946 hit song "Linda" by Buddy Clark, where she provided the iconic line "I don't talk to strangers." In the following year, she lent her voice to the Disney classic, voicing the enchanting Singing Harp who helped Mickey Mouse escape from the clutches of the Beanstalk Giant. Her memorable line, "...in his right vest pocket you'll find a key...," still resonates with fans of the beloved cartoon.
As television began to emerge, Anita became a regular fixture on the Ken Murray Show and later a featured singer on the popular Tennessee Ernie Ford show on ABC. In 1948, she tied the knot with Dale Sheets, who would later become an executive at MCA/Universal, and the couple went on to have three beautiful daughters.
The 1960s saw Anita appearing on various episodic television shows, before she embarked on a mini-career as the "ghost singer" for various female film stars in movie musicals. Her most notable collaboration was with Jean Seberg in the 1969 film "Paint Your Wagon," where she provided the singing voice for Seberg's character, Elizabeth.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Anita turned her attention to writing music and co-producing videos for international clients, including Philippine Airlines and Continental Airlines. Her personal life took a new turn when she divorced Dale Sheets and married El Chan, a union that would last for an impressive 41 years. The couple retired to Newhall, California, where they remained active and close to their three daughters, nine grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren.
Anita's life took a poignant turn in the years leading up to her passing in 2015, as her health began to decline rapidly. Despite her physical challenges, her legacy as a talented singer and entertainer continues to inspire and delight fans of all ages.
