Juanita Ann Vann

Juanita Ann Vann, a beloved member of the Newport News community, passed away on August 4, 2023, at the age of 51. Born on July 9, 1972, in Virginia, Juanita’s life was one filled with determination, growth, and a deep love for others.

Throughout her hardworking professional journey, Juanita dedicated her time and skills in service to others. She worked for Newport News Public Schools in the Crittenden Middle School and Heritage High School communities and ensured the safe transportation of passengers as a bus driver for HRT. Juanita’s caring nature also led her to explore the field of nursing, where she provided comfort and healing to those in need.

Beyond her work, Juanita possessed a vibrant spirit and a diverse range of interests. She found solace and inspiration through the joy of Reggae music, prayer, and her unwavering faith in God. Juanita embraced her spirituality wholeheartedly, attending Dunamis Christian Church and cherishing moments of devotion while reading the Bible.

One of Juanita’s greatest joys in life was spending quality time with her beloved children and grandbabies She delighted in dining out at the Chinese Buffet, indulging in delicious meals and relishing the company of loved ones. A true lover of beauty, Juanita took pleasure in pampering herself with manicures, pedicures, and always expressing her unique fashion and makeup sense.

The serene shores of Huntington Park and Anderson Park held a special place in Juanita’s heart. She found peace and tranquility at these locations and any body of water she was around, capturing their natural beauty through her passion for photography. Through her lens, Juanita preserved cherished moments, forever treasuring the memories created.

Juanita’s inspiring journey included graduating from Ferguson High School and later pursuing higher education while attending two years of college. Throughout her life, she exhibited tremendous strength and resilience, striving to right any wrongs and embracing courage along the way.

Her unwavering faith in God provided her with guidance and support. Juanita understood that everything she did was ultimately for God, acknowledging that He had the final say in her life. Above all, her love for her children was unconditional and unwavering, demonstrating her deep devotion to family.

Juanita Ann Vann’s life serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of God’s love. She pursued her goals, learned from her mistakes, and touched the lives of those around her. While we mourn her passing, let us celebrate her life and remember the impact she made on the world.

May Juanita’s legacy live on in the hearts of those whose lives she graced. Her courage, love, and determination serve as an inspiration to us all. As we celebrate Juanita, let us hold onto the memories of her unwavering spirit and the lessons she taught us – to love fearlessly, to seek redemption, and to find strength in our faith.

She is survived by her mother Jeffri Barksdale; children Carissa Vann, Ronnie (Sade) Johnson, Miasia Vann, and Gerald Bullock; older sister Louvenia Vann and her children Kadeem Vann, Shanice Vann, and Shawn Brown; younger sister Cheryl Wright and her children Aaliyah Preston, Charles Preston, and Drevon Preston; 8 grandchildren; and 10 great nieces and nephews.

Rest in eternal peace, dear Juanita.