Obituary – Juanita Willis Powell
Juanita Willis Powell
PORT ST. JOE, FL – Juanita Willis Powell, age 92, of Port St. Joe passed away peacefully on Sept. 19, 2023, surrounded by family. The daughter of James Roy Willis, Sr. and Fosteen Spivey Willis, Juanita was born on Jan. 9, 1931, in Blountstown.
Juanita was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband of 58 years, Lavernon Powell; her sisters, Oveda Taylor and Shirley Howell, and her brother, James Roy Willis, Jr. She is survived by her three sons, Robert Michael Powell, Jeffery Lynn Powell (Tracy), and William Mark Powell (Cindy); her five grandchildren, Heather Muller, Dustin Powell (Megan), Adam Powell, Gabrielle Powell and Grant Powell; her three great grandchildren, Catherine Muller, Ava Powell and Kole Powell; her sister, Lawanda Ross (Buddy); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whom she loved dearly.
Juanita had a fulfilling career, dedicating many years to Port St Joe Elementary School and Port St Joe High School, where she had a lasting impact on the lives of so many young people. She also enjoyed needlecraft, canning and traveling by RV with her husband and lifelong friends. But most of all, she cherished her time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. As the matriarch of the family, she seldom missed a baseball game, dance recital or school event.
Juanita was a devoted member of Highland View Baptist Church for over 65 years, where she found solace and strength in her Christian faith. She cherished the friendship and support she found within her church family.
Per Juanita’s wishes, a private graveside service will be held at a later date to honor her life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her memory.
Please join us in our remembrance of Juanita Willis Powell, a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many through her unwavering faith in Christ, and her love for her family, friends, and community. Whether we knew her as Juanita, Mrs. Powell, Mom, Nana or Aunt Neen, she will forever be remembered and cherished in our hearts.
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