Tributes

Juanita Sanders Russell was born on September 5, 1931 in Swanquarter, NC to the late Deacon Daisy and Emily O’Neal. Mother Juanita was called home to be with her heavenly Father on December 24, 2025. Mother Juanita attended the former Beaufort County High School in Pantego, NC. In the early 1950’s she moved to New York City and married the late Wilbert Lee Russell. To this union two children were born the late Gwendolyn Russell and Marion Russell. While in the big city, she worked various jobs: Delmonico’s Restaurant (Wall Street) and Lilyette Bra Company where she retired from. Mother Juanita moved back to North Carolina in 1980 to take care of her mother. When she returned home, Mother Juanita continued to work various jobs: Hamilton Beach, National Spinning Co., Terra Ceia Flower Farm. Mother Juanita was a devoted servant of the Lord and was a long-time member of Terra Ceia First Baptist Missionary Baptist Church. She served in many positions: choir member, church treasure, secretary and the last position she held was Mother of church. Mother Juantia was also a member of the Hyde County Missionary Baptist Association and a member of the Hyde County Mass Choir. Mother Juanita was a very caring and determined woman. She loved mowing her yard and was always on the go-it was hard to keep her still. Mother Juanita was always ready for a ride and loved being surrounded by her family, especially at gatherings. She was known for her delicious cakes, rice pudding and bread pudding. You couldn’t outshine this fox in heels. Mother Juanita was full of energy, strength, and spirit. Mother Juanita was preceded in death by her husband, Wilbert Lee Russell; her daughter, Gwendolyn Russell; her parents, Deacon Daisy and Emily O’Neal Sanders; and eleven siblings. Mother Juanita leaves to cherish her memory, one daughter, Marion Russell of Pantego, NC; four grandchildren, Latoya, Rashema, Isiah, Kaliff (Shante); seven great-grandchildren, Kiamoni, Darius, Gregvon, Ky’chalya, LaVareyah, Kiavona, Kimeria; two great-great grandchildren, Sage and Ezra; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Tributes

Ms. Juanita Sanders Russell

September 5, 1931 - December 24, 2025