Juanita Eluretta Patterson, of Palm Coast, achieved the blessed age of 98 before passing away peacefully on April 21, 2024, in her home, a place filled with the echoes of her love and surrounded by her adoring family.
She was born on April 27, 1925, in Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies, to the late Felix Archibald and Violet Eluretta Mitchell, who affectionately called her "Neety."
Juanita's life was a testament to her unwavering resilience, unyielding determination (which some called "stubbornness"), and boundless love. Her passion for the arts, a flame that was kindled and blazed at Alpha Academy in Kingston, Jamaica, where she studied, burned brightly throughout her life. After passing the transitional exams, she received certificates from the Royal Schools of Music, a subsidiary of the Royal Academy and College of Music, which was a beacon that led her aspirations to attend the prestigious Julliard School of Music in New York City. Undeterred by the challenges of being a lone female immigrant, she held various jobs to remain in school, a testament to her indomitable spirit and a source of inspiration for all.
Facing a lone female immigrant's financial and life challenges, she persevered, holding various jobs to remain in school. During this adventure in New York, she met the handsome, famous Jamaican cyclist Ashton Patterson, known by his racing pseudonym A-Lowe, who became her life's love. On September 18, 1948, she married Ashton, leaving Julliard behind to follow her new husband back to Jamaica. Was her mother thrilled about this choice? Absolutely not! Especially since her mother-in-law wanted her to be a proper Jamaican housewife, and Juanita and Ashton quickly began building their family without her advice.
In pursuit of a better employment opportunity, Ashton left Jamaica and returned to the United States, leaving Juanita and their daughter behind. After establishing a safe, stable home, he brought them to reside with him in the Bronx, USA, where they welcomed a son into their lives. Ashton paved the way for their family's resettlement in Queens, New York, where Juanita established a loving home, welcoming a second son. Even though she lived in the United States, she was a true Jamaican mother. Her love and guidance for her children were unwavering, encouraging them to strive for their best.
Juanita's love for her family was a constant beacon lighting the way to follow. The childcare challenges forced her to transition into a stay-at-home mom to care for her children. Her dedication extended beyond her home, as she became an engaged volunteer in her children's school and later a dedicated school crossing guard. Her actions exemplified her love and devotion to her family. She was a strict, true Jamaican mother.
Juanita pursued a career outside the home to meet her children's growing educational and other needs. She obtained a position with Bendix/Honeywell Corporation, which was located across the Hudson River in the state of New Jersey. She did not know how to drive, but she learned to drive specifically to work there and return home on time to meet her children coming home from school. After 25 years of service, Juanita retired from Bendix/ Honeywell.
In 1995, Juanita and Ashton began a new life in Palm Coast, Florida, where they were immersed in the warmth of the community and the tranquility of retirement.
Juanita's unwavering faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was active in her former church community, St. Paschal Baylon, in Queens. She brought that same enthusiasm to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Palm Coast, where she eagerly participated in ministries and social gatherings. Her involvement was not just a duty. It was a lifestyle.
Juanita was a compassionate and generous person. She was a member of the Black Catholic Guild, The Seton Choir, The Legion of Mary, and numerous outreach programs.
In addition to music, Juanita was talented in sewing, needlecrafts, and many crafty arts. She leaves behind a legacy of creativity and craftsmanship. When she was a crossing guard, she was required to wear a specific type of coat to stand in the rain and snow with a STOP sign. The Police Department wanted to sell it to her for some outrageous price. Since there was no regulation about it, Juanita studied the style and thickness of the coat and made her coat for a fraction of the cost. She said, “Don’t let people you work for push you around. Their job is not the only thing you know how to do; it’s not your hobby, nor do you have to work there. Remember, you’re only with them to make a living. She said some other things I won’t mention.” PS, she was the warmest and most smartly dressed Crossing Guard that winter.
Juanita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ashton, in 2011. She is survived by her devoted children, Pauline and her husband Adolfo Reid; her sons, Patrick Patterson and Paul Patterson; her cherished grandchildren, Nydia, Sabrina, Lia, Marlina, and Caeleigh; her adored great-grandchildren, Isabella, Benjamin, and Pearl; her sibling, Clive Williamson; niece Camille Henry; nephew Trevor Mitchell; and a host of other dear transcontinental relatives and friends.
What does the name Juanita mean? Here are some child-rearing tips from J.U.A.N.I.T.A.
J- stands for justice. Juanita knew how to dispense justice. Ask her kids. For example, any offender, be he Dad or kid, will stand in the spotlight of justice. An intelligent kid will get out of sight instead of enjoying the show, or said kid will hear, “And you are another one!” That means that whatever infraction you managed to get away with because you thought she didn’t know will be dealt with NOW!
U- stands for understanding. She understood your moves and motives before you acted on them. She will give her opinion. Listen and allow her to guide you IF you are under her roof. Her favorite quote is, “Even if I’m wrong, I’m right!”
A- stands for appreciative. She appreciated everything done for her.
N- stands for nurturing. She would encourage and defend you with all her heart, soul, and will.
I- stands for instinctive. She knows when you are lying or about to lie. Word to the wise: don’t do it.
T- stands for teacher. Juanita did not have a teaching degree, but she was the best mother and teacher anyone could have. Even when she was asleep, her lessons and guidance were with you.
A- stands for always being faithful. If you became her friend, she would remain your friend forever. Even if you fell out with her, she prayed for the repair of the friendship. Those who came to Juanita’s house often saw lit candles. Those candles were lit in prayer for every friend on their birthday.
Juanita's life was a testament to strength, love, and service. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is now safely home; may her gentle soul rest in eternal peace.
In conclusion, I say, well done, Mom, very well done!
A viewing for Juanita will be held Friday, May 10, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 4600 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast, Florida 32164, followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 AM.
Juanita will be laid to rest in Flagler Memorial Gardens, 511 Old Kings Road South, Florida 32136; Garden of Love.
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