Juanita Rogers Smith, age 78, of Asheville, NC transitioned from this life on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in Asheville, NC.

Juanita was born September 5, 1944, in Cullowhee, NC. 

She is the daughter of the late Hazel A. Whiteside and the late Weaver Shepard Jr.She is survived by her children, Katrina Rogers and Charles Smith, of Asheville, NC, Angela Smith of Hendersonville, NC; Sisters Karen Powell of Asheville, Kimberley Wheeler (Jerry) of Warner Robins, GA, Alma “Kris” Bowman of Asheville, Brenda Bowens (Terry), Deidra Armstrong, brothers Jerry Shepard and Orrick Shepard all of Detroit, MI. Grandchildren, Adrienne Rogers, Ava Rogers, Jer-Mayne White, Abreyah Smith, Apryle Rogers, Janay Smith, and Ari Smith; her beloved great grandchildren: Zariya Hammond, Chy Rogers, DeAngelo Tucker, Caza Allen, Mackenzie Rogers, NiQuay Boyd, Liam Henry, Hamish Henry, Samorah Carthins, Jaydence Carthins, and the littlest princess of them all Nina Nola Smith.

She was preceded in death by brothers Frank Burkes (Ethel), Tim Rogers, Tyrone Shepard and Reginald Shepard.

In addition to the above, she is survived by special cousins Esther Winder, Calvin Durham, Albie Pabon, Eddie Wells, Greg Wells, Tommy Rogers and an uncle, Clyde Waters. A host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who all love her and will miss her terribly.

She retired from The American Red Cross and Save The Children. She loved being with her family, shopping, feeding the neighborhood, gardening, and trips to Roses. Juanita was an LPN and practiced for many years working at Mission Hospital and The American Red Cross. After a brief retirement on disability from The American Red Cross, she obtained additional training and returned to the workforce where she was Office Manager for the Southeastern Area Office of Save the Children. She contributed her skills and personality to communities like Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia, Memphis, TN, St. Helena Island SC, and Cherokee NC – making many friends in her journeys. She worked for SEAO of Save the Children until she retired when the Asheville office was closed.

The family will honor Juanita’s request with a private memorial and no visitation.

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