Juanita Sykes

Juanita Sykes, beloved community member, dedicated public servant, and cherished matriarch, passed away on January 21, 2025, at her home in Louisville, Kentucky, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 10, 1933, in Louisville, where she lived her entire life, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Juanita had a remarkable career that spanned 25 years at Brown and Williamson, where she excelled as a Service Department Supervisor until the closure of their Kentucky branch. Following her retirement, she embraced her entrepreneurial spirit by opening the Fresh Deli on 28th and Dumesnil Streets in Louisville, a venture that allowed her to connect with both friends and new patrons alike.

A proud graduate of Central High School in Louisville, Juanita was not only passionate about her career but also deeply engaged in her community. For 75 years, she was a devoted member of Guiding Star Missionary Baptist Church, where she sang in the Sisterhood Choir and fulfilled her calling as a missionary, serving those around her in Jesus' name. Her contributions to the church and the wider community extended beyond her musical talents; she was a mother and grandmother to many, guiding and nurturing those in need.

Juanita was also a longstanding member of the Fraternal Order of Police for 40 years, which reflected her commitment to public service and her dedication to supporting law enforcement in her community. Her legacy is further enriched by the way she brought people together, having served as an event planner for numerous weddings and reunions. Her love for cooking was well-known, as she cherished the opportunity to prepare meals for family and friends, highlighting her nurturing and generous spirit.

Juanita is survived by her son, Duane Savage; daughters, Schlonda Sanders and Sharon Sykes; son, Cedric Keith Savage, Sr. (Christy); son, Aaron Sykes; 8 grandchildren, TaSheka Rainey, Saletha Rainey, Kedrian Lewis, Bryan Sanders, Shannon Sanders, Cedric Savage, Jr., Joshua Sykes, and JaLeah Sykes; 17 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family members and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 20 years, Franklin O. Sykes; her father, Rev. Charles Lane, Sr.; her mother, Alma Grigsby Lane; brothers, Charles Lane, Jr. and Arthur Lane; and son-in-law, Michael Sanders.

Visitation will be held on January 27, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 PM, both at the Guiding Star Missionary Baptist Church located at 2724 W Muhammad Ali Blvd, Louisville, KY 40212.

Juanita Sykes leaves behind a legacy of love, community involvement, and faith that will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing her.