Juanita Serna

Juanita "Jane" Serna, 84, passed away on October 12, 2026, at home surrounded by her loved ones. Born January 29, 1942, in San Benito, Texas, Juanita made her home in Lansing, Michigan, where she was known and cherished by many.

On September 21, 1963, in Lansing, Michigan, Juanita married Higenio “Kenny” Serna. Together they built a life grounded in devotion and steady companionship, and those who knew them saw in their bond a warmth that carried into every gathering.

Juanita worked for 15 years as a waitress at the Original Famous Taco and later retired from Otto Middle School. Through years of honest work and daily dedication, she became a familiar, dependable presence—someone others could count on, and someone who offered kindness as naturally as conversation.

A member of St. Therese Catholic Church, Juanita’s faith and sense of community remained important parts of her life in Lansing. She carried herself with a quiet strength and a gracious spirit, offering care and welcome in ways that made others feel they belonged.

Juanita found joy in the simple pleasures and the lively ones alike: bingo, Betty Boop, playing solitaire, going to the casino, and trying her luck with Keno and pull tabs. She enjoyed sewing and cross-stitching, working crossword puzzles, and in her younger years, bowling. Music was a constant companion—especially Joe Lopez Mazz—and she loved dancing with her husband, celebrating, and sharing laughter with family and friends, young and old. In every room she entered, her affection, generosity of heart, and celebratory spirit were felt; to many, she was a steady, loving presence and a true mother figure.

Juanita is survived by her children: Suzie (Gilbert) Ledesma, Magdalena Serna, Angie (Paul) Ripley, and JoJo (Mindi) Rahall. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Zackery (Emma) Allen, Victoria (Danny) Alaniz, Kayla Mundt, Tanya Mundt, and Elizabeth (Brandon) Stec; her great-grandchildren: Emmett, Theodore, Zoey, Jazzmin, Cierra, Kaleah, Kash, Kior, Israel, Elijah, Messiah, Nadia, Antonia, and James; and her great-great-grandchild: Emilio Jr.

Juanita is also survived by her sisters: Guadalupe Sauceda, Rosa Sauceda, and Frances (Danny) Medina; and her brothers: Jess Salazar and Angel (Christie) Salazar.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Higenio “Kenny” Serna; her parents, Jesus & Luz Salazar; her sister, Maria Limon; her brothers, Val Salazar and Joe Salazar; and her brother-in-laws, Ricardo Sauceda, Ricardo Limon, and Ramiro Sauceda.

The family would like to thank the Elara Palliative & Hospice staff, with special thanks to Jennifer & Kyle. The family also extends appreciation to Vets for Christ and offers a very special thanks to Aunt Frances & Uncle Danny Medina for being there and supporting them in their time of need.

Visitation will be held at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 900 East Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912, US, on October 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Prayer Service will be held the same day at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes from 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 18, 2026 at 1 p.m. at the Classic Pub located 16219 Old U.S. 27, Lansing, MI 48906.  Desserts will be provided, and food may be purchased there.