Juanita Motley

Juanita Motley was born on July 23, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois and raised by her mother, Ophelia Carter. A beloved matriarch with an infectious smile, she brought joy and laughter to her large extended family.

Juanita attended Jean Baptiste Point DuSable High School, named after Chicago’s first non-Native settler and boasting such notable alumni as singer and pianist Nat King Cole, the “Queen of Blues” Dinah Washington, accomplished jazz saxophonist Edwin Daugherty, Chicago’s first African-American major, Harold Washington, and Ebony/Jet magazine publisher, John H. Johnson.

Juanita worked at Superior Plastic Company as a injection molding machine operator, which she retired in 1978 from after working for 15 years. She also attended Helping Hand Baptist church under the leadership of Pastor Woolridge.

Possessing a remarkably sharp mind, Juanita could remember any family member’s birthday well into her golden years. Her love of numbers - as well as games of chance - fueled her passion for playing the lottery regularly and keeping track of the winning numbers. Her ideal gift for any special occasion was a set of scratch-offs, and if you gave her a card without them, she would flash her dimpled smile and let you know that you forgot something!

For many years, Juanita’s home was the site of an annual Christmas Eve celebration that generations of family members looked forward to and made it a point to attend. This event included grab bag gifts that were hand delivered by Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus promptly at 12 o’clock midnight. It was this spirit of giving and togetherness that carved out Juanita’s legacy within the family and continues to fuel holiday gatherings to this day.

Juanita passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2025 after having lived 94 wonderful years. She was preceded in death by her mother: Ophelia Carter; Her siblings: Robert, Sam, Marshall, Yvonne, Hattie, and Rosie; Her grandson: Alvin (Boo) Motley Jr.

Juanita leaves to cherish her memories her siblings: Beverly (Allan) and LeRoy (Joanne); Her children: Alvin (Janice), Robert, and Reggie: Her grandchildren: Robert Jr. (Jamie) and Tasheta , 3 Great grandchildren, Brittany, Tommy, and Tammy and 8 Great-Great grandchildren