Juanita Little

On October 28, 1943, in Jackson, Mississippi, a beautiful baby girl was born to John and Frances Woodley. They named her Juanita Little, and from the beginning she was cherished. She was affectionately known as “Sista,” a name that reflected the warmth, love, and loyalty she shared so freely throughout her life. During her early years, Juanita and her family relocated from Mississippi to Chicago, Illinois. She attended Marshall High School and, after settling on the west side of Chicago, she confessed Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. Her faith would remain the foundation that guided her steps and shaped her character. Juanita became a member of Straightway Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorship of the late Reverend Lloyd L. Daniels. After moving to 3045 West Lexington, she joined Rising Sun Missionary Baptist Church, where she served faithfully as the church announcer and church secretary under the late Reverend W.A. Kelly. Rising Sun’s current pastor is Reverend Dr. Matthew L. Miller. In 1977, Juanita and her family moved to Chicago’s south side. After visiting several churches, she felt led to join Oakdale Covenant Church in December of 1982 under the pastorship of the late Reverend Dr. W.B. Jemison. Oakdale’s current pastor is Reverend Dr. Darrell Griffin. Juanita loved her Oakdale family and served with dedication on the Repast Ministry, the Reconnecting Center Mission Ministry, and the Deacon/Deaconess Board, continuing her service faithfully until her health no longer allowed her to attend. While walking down the street with her best friend, Carolyn, Juanita met the love of her life, Roosevelt Little. Their love blossomed quickly, and on April 9, 1966, they were united in holy matrimony. To this union, two beautiful daughters were born: Raquel Lennette Little-Adams and Chanel Danyè Little. Juanita and Roosevelt shared a loving, devoted marriage for 58 years, remaining inseparable until Roosevelt’s passing in February 2025. Juanita began her professional journey at Zenith before joining Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, where she worked for 25 years. She started as a switchboard operator and advanced to executive assistant, retiring in 1998. Afterward, she worked briefly in real estate before joining Melvin Securities, as an executive assistant. She remained there until retiring again in the early 2000s. Juanita was a true fashionista. Michigan Avenue felt like her second home, and she took great pride in the way she dressed. Her style was sophisticated, elegant, and always perfectly put together. She had a natural eye for fashion, and her sharp, polished appearance became one of her trademarks. In addition to her love for fashion, Juanita had a deep passion for gardening. Every year, she happily planted flowers, tended her yard, and made sure her home looked beautiful inside and out. She enjoyed decorating just as much as she enjoyed gardening, and she had a natural talent for interior design. HGTV was her favorite channel, and she could spend hours watching home décor and renovation shows, gathering ideas and inspiration. Juanita was also known for her lively spirit and competitive edge at the card table. She was an avid BidWhist player, and BidWhist was her game. Whether she was laughing, strategizing, or celebrating a good hand, she brought energy and fun wherever she played. Her favorite holiday was Christmas, and she celebrated it with joy and extravagance. She loved lighting up her home with Christmas lights, decorating every corner, and creating a warm, festive atmosphere for her family. Juanita’s journey on earth was rich with love, service, style, and devotion. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her brother Leroy Woodley, and her parents John and Frances Woodley, and her brother Roosevelt Woodley. She leaves to cherish her memory, her two daughters, Raquel Lennette Little- Adams and Chanel Danyè Little; her grandchildren: Alexis Danyè Folks, Alexian Carran Folks Jr., Morgan Lynette Folks, and Paige Aaliyah Adams; her brothers, John Woodley Jr. and Curtis Woodley; her sisters, Geneva Clark and Louise Woodley; a host of sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and treasured friends. Juanita “Sista” Little lived a life filled with grace, dignity, faith, and love. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Juanita Little

October 28, 1943 - November 22, 2025