Juanita Hagood

July 7, 1947 - September 9, 2026

Juanita was a woman of strength, determination, independence, and unmistakable spirit. She worked hard throughout her life and was never afraid to speak her mind. If Juanita had something to say, you rarely had to wonder what she was thinking—she would tell you herself. That feisty spirit was simply part of who she was, and those who knew and loved her knew it wouldn't be any other way. Juanita dedicated much of her working life to caring for others as a mental health worker at Arizona State Hospital. It was demanding and important work, and she approached it with the same strength and perseverance with which she approached her own life.

In 1985, Juanita accomplished something especially remarkable: she purchased land and had a home custom-built for herself. At a time when homeownership and financial independence presented significant barriers for many women—and particularly for a single Black woman in America—Juanita created something that was entirely her own. Her home stood as more than a place to live. It was a testament to her hard work, independence, determination, and belief in what she could accomplish.

Juanita also had a softer side that those closest to her knew well. She loved butterflies so much that she named her beloved dog Butterfly. It was a fitting name for something that brought her such joy and companionship. She also had a hidden talent of a gorgeous operatic voice. As one of Jehovah witnesses she also had a deep love for her god Jehovah. She believed in the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and the hope of resurrection; she was a faithful witness to the end.

Beneath Juanita’s feistiness was a woman who deeply loved her family. In the days before her passing, she made sure those feelings were known, expressing her love for her family. Those words now become a precious final gift—a reminder that, through everything, love remained at the heart of who Juanita was.

Juanita lived life with strength. She worked hard. She spoke her mind. She created a home of her own. She cared for others. She loved her family. And she left behind memories of a woman who was undeniably and unapologetically herself. Her family will remember her strength, her independence, her feisty personality, her love of butterflies, and all of the qualities—both tender and spirited—that made Juanita simply Juanita.

Her struggle with pain is now over. May she finally find the peace and rest she deserves. Rest peacefully, Juanita. You worked hard. You loved deeply. And you will always be remembered and loved.

Survived by a large loving family from the East Coast to the West Coast.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026 at Funeraria del Angel Greer Wilson Chapel, 5921 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ. 85033 from 2 PM-6 PM.

Entombment will follow on Monday, October 5, 2026 at 10 AM at the Serenity Mausoleum, Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery, 2300 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ. 85009