On June 18, 2022, Juanita Rose (nee Harris) Street, surrounded by the love, support and comfort of her family in Charlotte, NC left her earthly home to finally be reunited with the love of her life, her husband, Robert (Bob) Nathaniel Street and family members who have gone before her. For 99 years, the world was blessed with her presence, selflessness, and devotion to family and friends. “Nene,” the nickname given to her by family and close friends, is surely missed, but we know she is at peace with God and all her loved ones.
Nene was born to the late Laura Elizabeth (nee Cooper) and Dewitt Talmadge Harris on May 18, 1923, in St. Louis, MO. She was the oldest of three children, and was preceded in death by her two brothers, Dewitt (Buddy) Talmadge Harris and Lucas Harris. She was educated in the St. Louis Public School system and a proud graduate of Sumner High School.
Nene was one of the first African-Americans hired at Southwestern Bell in St. Louis, MO, and later worked in the Barnes-Jewish Hospital Medical Records Department for 35 years until her retirement. After her retirement, she continued to volunteer at the United Way where she was interviewed on television about her dedication to volunteerism.
Nene and Bob were joined in holy matrimony on March 9, 1946. Even though their 35 years of marriage was cut short by Bob’s untimely death, they raised two beautiful daughters, the late Lauren Elizabeth (nee Street) McWilliams and the late Robyn Anita Street with the help of Nene’s mother, Elizabeth “Dearie” Harris.
Nene accepted Christ at an early age, raised in the AME Methodist Church. Once married to Bob, they both converted to Roman Catholicism and devoted their lives to God, family and serving others.
Nene lived a full life. She enjoyed caring for her family, travelling, music and cooking. After Bob’s death, her immense love and devotion to her family was demonstrated by the outstanding care she gave to her mother who passed at the age of 105 in 2007, youngest daughter, Robyn who passed away in 2015 and her oldest daughter, Lauren whom she personally cared for in her home until Lauren’s death in 2018. In addition, she was the rock for her granddaughter, Dr. Laurie McWilliams guiding her through many life challenges and career choices.
Nene loved cooking! She was noted for her barbeque and potato salad dishes, cherished by all. Her travels with family sent her to many incredible destinations: Hawaii, London, Mexico, Jamaica, Grand Cayman Islands, and at 98 years of age, Turks and Caicos. She was planning a trip to Paris, France at the time of her death.
She is survived by her granddaughter, Laurie Frances McWilliams, MD (Jeffrey Dunnigan, DC), two great-grandchildren Aaron William Dunnigan and Ethan Robert Dunnigan and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial mass will be celebrated on Thursday, July 7, 2022 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 106 N. Meramec, Clayton, MO 63105 at 5pm. Private burial at Jefferson Barracks, St. Louis, MO. Nene always said, “give me my flowers when I’m alive.” Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association or The United Way of Greater St. Louis.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kriegshausermortuary.com for the Street family.
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