Juanita Bernal-Fussell passed away on Thursday, January 8, after a courageous 25-plus year battle with kidney disease. Throughout her life, Juanita faced her health challenges with strength, determination, and an unwavering desire to help others walking similar paths.

Juanita is lovingly remembered by her husband of 30 years, Johnny Fussell Jr., and her teenage son, Joseph Fussell, who were the center of her world. Juanita and John met at an amusement park, a joyful beginning that blossomed into a lifelong love. That shared sense of fun and adventure carried into their family life, as they continued to visit amusement parks together and create lasting memories filled with laughter and togetherness.

Juanita was deeply devoted to her family. She is survived by her beloved sisters, Cristina and Cecilia, as well as her many cherished nieces and nephews—Fifi, Robert, Lexi, Ricky, Mariela, and Chris—each of whom held a special place in her heart. She is now reunited with her beloved mother, Lucha, and father, Tomas, who preceded her in death. Juanita's love for her family was evident in her kindness, her presence, and the care she showed in every relationship.

Originally dreaming of becoming a science teacher, Juanita found her calling in the pharmaceutical field, working as a quality manager. Her career choice was deeply personal—shaped by her own medical journey and her desire to contribute to work that could improve and save lives like her own. Twenty years ago, Juanita was blessed to receive a kidney donation from her father, a gift that extended her life and gave her precious years with those she loved. As time passed and that gift reached its limits, Juanita was once again waiting for a donor. Juanita passed while still holding hope for another life-saving match.

Juanita's life is a testament to love, resilience, and hope. In her memory, the family encourages others to hold those suffering from kidney disease in their thoughts and prayers, to support organ donation efforts, and, if possible, to consider the generous and life-changing gift of organ donation. Through such acts, Juanita's legacy of compassion and purpose can continue to touch lives.