Mrs. Juanita Leverett

Juanita Isom was born on April 14, 1923, in the small rural community of Halley, Arkansas, to Susie and George Isom. As one of nine children, Juanita grew up amidst the challenges and warmth of a bustling household. Her mother, who battled Parkinson's disease with steadfast courage, and her father, who was her devoted caregiver, instilled in Juanita and her siblings a deep reverence for God and a thirst for knowledge. Juanita often recalled her first day of school with pride. Her lunch, a shiny syrup bucket holding a baked sweet potato and a piece of cornbread, was quickly forgotten as she marveled at her new surroundings. She was captivated by the lessons and the unfamiliar words, but most of all, she was mesmerized by her teacher's elegance and grace, always adorned in pretty dresses and high- heeled shoes. Inspired by this nurturing guidance, Juanita knew she wanted to one day become a teacher. Throughout her childhood and adolescence, Juanita never lost sight of the image her first-grade teacher had painted for her. This vision guided her to AM&N College in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where she declared her major in Elementary Education. She later pursued graduate studies at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, further solidifying her commitment to education. Juanita spent many years in the classroom, wearing pretty dresses and high-heeled shoes, infusing young minds with possibilities and teaching them to dream big, reach for the stars, and always remember God's love. Juanita's dedication to nurturing young minds continued throughout her career, from her early days as a teacher to her tenure as an esteemed elementary school principal. Her classrooms were sanctuaries of joy and discovery, where each child felt valued and inspired to reach their fullest potential. Juanita was married to Arthur Leverett for over 65 years, a loving partnership that stood as a testament to their enduring bond and mutual respect. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Arthur, and six of her siblings. As we gather to honor Juanita and celebrate her remarkable life, we remember a woman whose dreams became her reality. Her reverence for God and passion for education were ignited by a teacher whose knowledge, wisdom, elegance, and kindness left an indelible mark on her young heart. Today, as we bid farewell to Juanita, we celebrate the profound impact she had on countless lives. Her legacy extends far beyond the walls of any school, resonating in the hearts of students, colleagues, and families whose lives she touched with her wisdom, kindness, and steadfast belief in God and the power of education. Though she no longer walks among us, Juanita's spirit lives on in the countless lives she enriched and the futures she helped shape. She leaves to mourn her passing two sons, Ronald E. Leverett (Earlene) and Michael E. Leverett (Valarie), one sister, Lucille Hankton, and one brother, Wardell Isom. She is also survived by three grandchildren, Lindsey Leverett-Higgins (Leon), Mason Leverett, and Michaela Leverett, and one great-granddaughter, Scarlett E. Markham, who will grow up hearing about the remarkable legacy of her great-grandmother. Additionally, Juanita leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and her beloved community in Dermott, Arkansas. Let us carry forward her legacy of compassion, dedication, and the joy of learning, honoring her memory in our hearts forevermore. As the scriptures remind us, "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her" (Proverbs 31:28). May we all strive to live by the values she held dear and keep her memory alive in our actions and hearts.

Mrs. Juanita Leverett

July 5, 2024