Juanita Kesley Kilgore

Juanita Kesley Kilgore entered into her heavenly home June 24, 2021. Born to Joseph Kesley and Ada Pearl Brotherton Kesley on September 19, 1925 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She was the fourth of their five children; Dorothy, Georgia, Howard, and Robinette. All shared a very special bond and the four sisters were affectionately known as the “Cackle Sisters”. Many good times were shared with this very large family and much laughter was had.

Juanita graduated from Central High School in Chattanooga in 1943. She married Charles (Charlie) Eugene Kilgore, June 22, 1946. She was a devoted homemaker. Juanita and Charlie had two daughters. Juanita was a master seamstress. Her talents produced countless dance costumes, dresses of all sorts, gowns (including 2 wedding gowns), suits, and furniture coverings. If it could be produced on a sewing machine, Juanita could make it. She never missed dance recitals, band performances, football games, or any other activity her girls were involved in. Her kitchen table was always open to whoever might be visiting or just stopping by.

Juanita and Charlie relocated the family to Salisbury, NC when Charlie became the superintendent of the National Cemetery. She often referred to the twenty years there as some of the best times of their lives. Her faith was the foundation of everything she did. She loved her Lord. She was an active member of Stallings Memorial Baptist church where she worked in the library, sang in the choir, was a member of the WMU, assisted with vacation bible school, and many other ministries. When Charlie retired to Florida, she became a charter member of Downtown Baptist Church of Orlando where she worked in the media center for many years.

Juanita was preceded in death by her beloved Charlie, her parents and siblings. Her legacy of love and laughter will be carried on by her daughters Sherryl K. Schroeder (Gary) and Susan L. Chimento (Mike); grandchildren Christopher and Catherine (whom she adored), and many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

Juanita requested in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the Downtown Baptist Church or Orlando to support the media center or the music programs.

Numbers 6 24-26 (KJV) “The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”