Juanita L. Dietle

Mrs. Juanita Louise Dietle, age 94, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Capital Region Medical Center.

She was born on May 7, 1931, in Kansas City, Ks., a daughter to the late Riley Wright and Opal Ruby (Willcoxon) Murphy. On September 22, 1951, she was united in marriage to Donald Lee Dietle in Hannibal, Mo. The couple shared over 50 years of marriage before his passing on February 6, 2002.

Juanita was a 1949 graduate of Frankford High School. Growing up in a small town, she worked for the local diner before going to work for the Frankford Telephone Company as a Telephone Operator for a short time. Once she and Donald started their family, Juanita devoted her time to taking excellent care of her home and children.

A woman of deep and steadfast faith, Juanita was a longtime member of First Christian Church in Jefferson City. She found great joy in fellowship, especially through the women's group, Mary Circle, and serving with the church food pantry whenever she was able. Her heart for service was evident in the many ways she shared her time, resources, and talents, always giving generously to others.

One of Juanita's greatest talents was her gift of hospitality. She had a remarkable way of making everyone feel welcome and at ease, whether hosting gatherings or simply opening her home to others. Known for her quick wit and outgoing personality, she loved being the life of the party and bringing joy to those around her. With Juanita present, there was never a dull moment.

Built with a sense of adventure, Juanita loved the thrill of traveling - road trips across the country with her young family, work trips with Donald, Central Bank group trips, or simple trips to the grocery store - if the wheels were turning, Juanita was going. She and Donald escaped the cold Missouri winters for the warm Florida sand for many years and made lasting memories everywhere they went. She crossed 49 out of 50 states off her travel bucket list and ventured into Mexico and Canada.

Juanita had a lifelong love of words and learning. Even as a young girl, she read and studied the dictionary, believing that language was always changing. That curiosity stayed with her throughout life, whether she was working on word puzzles, enjoying a historical fiction or mystery novel, or engaging in new interests. She also loved watching movies, Missouri sports teams - especially her beloved St. Louis Cardinals - television game shows, and her favorite soap opera, General Hospital. Always eager to keep up with the latest technology and pop culture, Juanita's openness to change made her a truly unique member of her generation.

Above all, Juanita cherished time spent with her family. Family trips and holidays were special times that she looked forward to year after year. She taught them not to worry but to embrace each day as it comes. Her generosity, servant's heart, and playful spirit are just a few of the gifts she leaves behind. Juanita will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know and love her.

She is survived by her daughter, Eden Gay Dietle of Jefferson City; granddaughter, Breanne Leigh Revell of St. Louis, Mo., son-in-law, John Revell of O'Fallon, Mo.; in-laws, Barbara Dietle of Hannibal, Mo., Shirley Dierling and Linda Ellis, both of Frankford, Mo., Richard "Sonny" Dietle of New London, Mo., and Betty Dietle of Florida; and a host of nieces and nephews, and members of her extended and church families.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald; parents, Riley and Opal; son, Brian Andrew Dietle; daughter, Jana Beth Revell; brother, Jack Murphy; and several members of her extended family.

Friends and family will be received from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Freeman Mortuary.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 28, 2025, at First Christian Church with the Reverend Michael Dunn officiating. Juanita will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Frankford, Missouri following the service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to First Christian Church, 327 E Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101, or the Celiac Disease Foundation, 21300 Victory Boulevard, Suite 300, Woodland Hills, CA 91367 (celiac.org).

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.

www.freemanmortuary.com