Juanita Fern Moffitt

Juanita Fern Moffitt, 75, of Piggott, passed away Friday, Sept. 11, 2009, at St. Bernards Regional Medical Center in Jonesboro.

She was born May 1, 1934, and was the daughter of the late Walter Pricey and Mollie (Claycomb) Pruett. She also was preceded in death by her brother, Raymond "Sonny" Pruett.

Juanita graduated from Kennett High School in 1952 with honors, and received a full scholarship to Harding University in Searcy for her beautiful singing voice. While there she met Verlin Moffitt and after a brief courtship, they married on Aug. 15, 1953, in Raton, N.M. They were married for 56 years, and to this union two children, Vicki Lynne and Gary, were born.

Juanita continued to attend college at various universities as the family moved following Verlin's work. She worked as a news reporter, a secretary for D&G Plumbing and Heating, Clay County Judge Harry Niewald, and Clay County Extension Services office in Corning.

Juanita's greatest job was being a mother not only to her children but to a large number of neighborhood friends of her children. She joked that her yard looked like either a bicycle shop or a used car lot depending on the ages of Vicki and Gary. All called her "Mom" and she opened her home and her heart to everyone. She was a Girl Scout Troop Leader and a Boy Scout Den Leader. Juanita was a member of the South Thornton Church of Christ and the New Piggott Chapter # 623 Order of the Eastern Star. She taught many bible classes and tutored students from grade school through college. She held many local and state offices in various organizations. In 2008, she went to live at Murphy's Health and Rehabilitation Center in Piggott. During that time she was active in the Resident Council, led a Devotional class three times each week and voluntarily mended the residents' afghans. She also visited with many of the residents who were unable to leave their rooms.

Survivors include her husband, Verlin Moffitt of the home; daughter, Vicki Lynne Moffitt of Piggott; son, Gary Moffitt of Piggott; granddaughter, Kristy Cole; four great-grandchildren, Dylan, Tyler and Logan Cole and Rachel Deggans; sisters-in-law, Betty and Nina Moffitt; aunt Emma Nell Claycomb and many other relatives and friends, who will miss her bright smile and loving, caring heart.

While many will miss her we know she is in a better place. She would not want us to grieve but to celebrate her life.

Funeral services were held Monday, Sept. 14, in the Hoggard and Sons Chapel with Richard Akins officiating. Dale Crawford led the singing with Jim Teachenor playing the piano during visitation. A graveside service was held at New Hope Cemetery in Pollard Tuesday, Sept. 15, with Dennis Templeton officiating. Pallbearers were Aaron Deggans, Don Garver, Brent Coomer, Larry Simpson, Bob Tidwell and Bob Causey. Carol Reed served as honorary pallbearer.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the needy student fund at Piggott Elementary School. Donations may be dropped off at the school in her name, or mailed to 895 East Main Street, Piggott, Ark., 72454.

Hoggard and Sons Funeral Home of Piggott was in charge of the arrangements. Those wishing to post on-line condolences may do so at www.hoggardfuneralhome.com.