Jaunita House

Juanita House, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home on September 16, 2025. She was known for her unwavering faith, wisdom, beautiful smile, sharp wit, and unforgettable humor that brightened the lives of all who knew her.
Born April 26, 1931, in West Palm Beach, FL, to May Rolle, a hairdresser and businesswoman, Juanita grew up on 18th Street in West Palm Beach before moving to Ithaca, NY. She attended Ithaca High School, and after graduating, married and had three sons: Richard, Stanley, and Donald. A devoted mother and hard worker, Juanita always found a way to provide for her family.
She carried that same dedication into her faith as a member of the A.M.E. Zion Methodist Church and into her studies, earning a Bachelor's degree from Cornell University.
In her lifetime she was blessed with many grandchildren, many of whom she lovingly helped raise and welcomed into her home. Known for her southern cooking - fried fish, salmon and grits, fried squash, eggplant, and potato salad - she never let the little ones leave without a snack or a few dollars in their pocket. She was affectionately known as "Ms. House" and "everyone's grandma on the Southside."
Neighbors could always find her on her porch, smiling and chatting with anyone who passed by. A true matriarch, she watched her community grow and change over decades. As the last of her generation, she was living history. Her love, wisdom, and legacy will never be forgotten.
Juanita House is survived by two children: Donald House and Stanley (Agnes) House. She was a proud grandmother to 10 grandchildren from Donald (Lilia House, Dora Welch, and Kara Eaton) and 2 from Stanley, as well as 18 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.
She was preceded in death by her husband Robert House, her mother May Rolle, and her son Richard House.
The family of Juanita House would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for the love, prayers, and support shared during this time. Your kindness has brought comfort and peace to our hearts. May the memory of Juanita's love and laughter continue to live on through all who knew her.