Juanita Little

Mrs. Juanita Ernestine Hubbard Little was born August 6, 1930 to the late Will Hubbard and Hattie Mae Hubbard in Memphis, TN. She was the fourth of nine children. She was preceded in death by her sisters Carrie (Hubbard) Whitfield and Bettie (Hubbard) Smith and brothers Will Hubbard, Jr., George Hubbard, Elbert Hubbard and Wallace Hubbard. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Tara Ellaine Little Moore. She is survived by her sisters Annette (Hubbard) Walls and Shirley Dean Hubbard Bratton. Juanita graduated from Booker T Washington in 1949 in Memphis, TN. She grew up in South Memphis near Trigg Avenue. It was here that she accepted Christ by becoming a member at Shiloh MB Church and served as a faithful member of the Shiloh MB Church Usher Board. Juanita married her husband Otis Little in 1956 and to this union four children were born. She later became a member of Berean MB Church under the leadership of Rev. Edward Parker Jr. where she also served faithfully as a member of the Usher Board. Whether through acts of kindness, passionate pursuits or unwavering dedication to a cause, Juanita’s life contributions served as a guiding light for others. She served as an usher for over 40 years as she enjoyed creating a welcoming and orderly environment, serving as the first point of contact for attendees and ensuring a smooth and positive experience for all. Juanita was truly the definition of a virtuous woman that took pride in everything she did who also believed in keeping God first in everything that she did. She often demonstrated sheer dedication, would strive for excellence, and sought to contribute meaningful life moments. She became a nurse’s aid in June of 1967 where she provided direct patient care assisting with activities of daily living, and maintaining a safe and clean environment. In July of 1977, she became an auxiliary probation officer for the Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee. She received an award for Officer of the Year in 1984 and was later promoted to a probationary supervisor in June of 1984. She served as a volunteer for both St. Joseph Hospital and Methodist South delivering not only food but kind words to those in need of being uplifted. She delivered for Meals on Wheels serving those in need of a warm meal. She also served as the president of both the Mt. Zion Seniors and Walker Homes Community Club where she joyfully contributed to those around her. She always had an uplifting yet stern word to give all who encountered her as she was a pillar of knowledge and encouragement. She later received a Living Legacy Award for Women’s History Month for exemplary leadership and lifetime investment in Berean and the community on March 20th 2022 given under the hand of Dr William Smith III, Senior Pastor. Memories, stories and lessons have become threads woven into the fabric of her family and community, inspiring future generations to carry forward her vision, passions and ideals. Her essence will continue to echo through time enriching the hearts and minds of so many touched by her. She leaves to cherish her memory: one daughter, Lonita Renee Little and two sons, Wynile DeRay Little, and Vincent DeWayne Little; nine grandchildren: Tammie Little, Vincent DeWayne Upchurch, LaTara Moore, LaToya Moore Hull (Argentrius), Hollis Moore II, LaTaraka Moore, Shaquille Moore, Jaylon Moore and Devin Moore; 22 great grandchildren, a devoted son in law, Hollis Moore I, a dear Goddaughter, Shirley Quarrels and a devoted daughter in law, Rubystein Upchurch… and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Juanita Little

August 3, 1930 - March 27, 2025