Juanita Lavon Lackey

Juanita “Nanny”, was born to Omer and Mary Moore on November 27, 1929 in Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her husband Edwin Lackey, her brothers, Jack, Horace, Ben, Marvin, her sister Shirley, and son John Lackey. She is survived by her sisters, Louella Swayze, Billie Staton, Mary Baird, her daughters, Faun Horton, Frances Schreiner, Elizabeth Crookham, Noeleen Hetrick, Robin Tong, her sons David Lackey and Charles Lackey, 19 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

Juanita was a woman ahead of her time. After having 3 children at an early age, she attended night school to earn her GED, and became a “working woman”- the first on the block. She excelled at retail sales and paved the way for others. She had a great love of people from all walks of life and she never treated people differently.

Juanita and her husband loved the ocean and fishing. They spent many summers in Fort Bragg, fishing for salmon and during the fall and winter months, digging for clams. Their children, grandchildren and friends often joined them.

Juanita did everything with intensity and passion. Everyone who knew her enjoyed her enthusiasm for life. Her knowledge of gardening, crafts and cooking was inspirational, and she was always willing to share and teach. She was named “Volunteer of the Year”, in Madera County, and was a founding member of the Ranchos Hills Senior Center, in Madera, California. She took classes in textiles and horticulture at Fresno State, and earned the distinction of Master Gardner. She was also a member of the Fiber Guild, Elks Club and Fresno Police Wives Club.

Lastly, Juanita made everyone feel special. She always gave you her undivided attention- You always left feeling unconditional love and support. She taught us all to live life fully, pursue our dreams, act with integrity and demonstrate compassion for others.

Regretfully, due to COVID-19, services are limited to immediate family. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hinds Hospice at hindshospice.org or Rancho Hills Seniors, 559/645-4864.