Juanita L. Jones

On September 2, 1927, our Lord and Savior blessed Stanford and Merdie (Kilgore) Rodgers with their child, Juanita La’Francis Rodgers. Juanita had nine siblings: Elsie, Stanford, Mammie Lee, Paul, Clemmie, Doris, DeLoyce, Calvin (Mercie Dee), and Mary. All preceded Juanita in death, but one, Calvin Rodgers.

Juanita was educated in Union Parish Public Schools in Spearsville, Louisiana. She accepted Christ at an early age and became a member of Sweet Union Baptist Church. She moved to Dallas, Texas, to live with her beloved Aunt Emily, where she attended Bishop College. While in Dallas, Juanita met the love of her life, C.L. Jones, Sr., in October of 1947. Juanita and C.L. were united in matrimony on June 8, 1948. To this union, six children were born: Alvis Ray, Clifton, Miram, Loyce Bernard, C.L., Jr., and Janice Jones. Juanita’s husband, C.L. Jones, Sr.; son, Miriam Jones; and grandchild, Nikitria, preceded her in death.

Juanita worked in the homes of others providing care to their children until she retired.

She loved her family and church. Juanita served as an Usher with Goodwill Baptist Church under the leadership of the Late J.C. Huey for many years. Juanita was a member of True Believers of Christ Community Church where she remained until her health failed her. She was always devoted to giving and sharing with others. She enjoyed playing basketball, fishing, collecting HL Green Stamps, bargaining for sales, and sitting on the “Gary” (porch) watching the cars go by and neighbors move about. Juanita began recycling years before it became environmentally friendly. She never met a stranger and believed in helping others. Juanita was loved by many and will truly be missed.

Juanita leaves to cherish in her memory, a devoted and loving daughter, Janice Jones (Irvin Rand), and sons, Alvis Ray, Clifton, Loyce Bernard, C.L., Jr., and Kenneth Rodgers; grandchildren, Collette (Elie), Kendrick (Camesha), Alvetta, Daniritria, Shonitria, Cedric, Brian, and Alana; twelve great-grandchildren; special daughters-in-law, Joyce Hodges and Alicia Jones; mother-in-law, Antonia Shephard; one special niece, Tonya Fields; special extended family members, Ana, Kyle, Kenny, and Ryan (Gary) Berner; and a host of other relatives and friends.