OBITUARY

Mrs. Juanita Jones, a woman of extraordinary strength, wisdom, and unwavering faith, transitioned peacefully after a life lived boldly, fearlessly, and with profound purpose. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was a devoted member of Old Saint Paul Church in Lipscomb, Alabama, and later a committed member of Sixth Avenue Baptist Church, where her faith continued to flourish.

Juanita was blessed with a brilliant mind and a determined spirit. She graduated from Shades Valley High School and went on to earn her  Bachelor’s Degree in Telecommunications from Alabama A&M University, where she proudly marched as a Maroonette in the university band. She was also a cherished member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., carrying herself with grace, service, and sisterhood.

In 1988, Juanita co‐founded Securities Capital Corporation alongside her late husband, Michael A. Jones, marking the beginning of a distinguished career in business, leadership, and community impact. Her visionary leadership continued as she made history in 2000 when she was elected the first African American Chairwoman of the Birmingham Water Works Board, a milestone that reflected her courage, brilliance, and commitment to public service.

A gifted communicator, Juanita served as Editor‐in‐Chief of The Capital Business Review, where her voice, insight, and editorial direction shaped conversations across the business community. She orchestrated numerous initiatives that uplifted others, strengthened neighborhoods, and inspired progress. Her public speaking ability, sharp intellect, and magnetic personality made her unforgettable to everyone she encountered. Juanita lived life with a boldness that was unmistakable. Her personal mantra, “walk boldly and never give up,” guided her through every challenge and triumph. She embodied resilience, determination, and an unshakeable belief in possibility. Even in her later years, she continued to pursue her calling to serve others—recently completing her foster care certification with hopes of opening her home and heart to a child in need.

She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a powerful encourager. Education was deeply important to her, and she consistently urged young people to pursue school, graduate, and make wise choices. She spoke her mind with clarity and conviction, leaving no doubt about where she stood. Her humor was infectious, her wisdom abundant, and her presence larger than life. She was adored by all who knew her.

Juanita was preceded in death by her mother, Mattie Smith; her father, Henry Smith; and her beloved husband, Michael A. Jones. 

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children: Nicole Fields (Christian), Travis Jones, and Jeremy Jones; her grandchildren: Javeon,  Jackson, Isreal, Christian, Xavier, Braylon, and Paris. She also leaves her devoted brother, Fernando Smith (Charlene); and her loving sisters: Deborah Young (Tommy), Jacqueline Smith, Cynthia Larkins, Jennifer Smith, and Sandra Carl. In addition, she leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who were blessed by her encouragement, support, and unwavering belief in their potential. Her legacy is one of courage, excellence, faith, and unstoppable determination. She lived fully, loved deeply, and inspired endlessly. Her impact will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the community she helped shape.