Juanita Truss

Mrs. Juanita Lawler Truss was born on March 26, 1944, in Talladega, Alabama, to parents James Lawler, Sr. and Zora McGhee Lawler. She was the second of four siblings. Juanita was saved when she accepted Christ as her Lord and personal Savior at an early age at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, where she found solace and community. Later in life, Juanita became an active member of Mt. Canaan Baptist Church, where her faith continued to flourish. She sang soprano in the choir and fulfilled the role of a mother/nurse for the church community. Her life stood as a testament to her unwavering belief in the profound power of love, compassion, and faith. Juanita graduated from Westside High School, and her faith in God was an integral part of her life. Juanita's nurturing spirit extended to her profession. She pursued her passion for healthcare, earning her LPN degree from Nunnally State Technical College. Juanita's dedication to caring for others left a lasting impact on all those she encountered in her medical career. In 1964, she was united in holy matrimony to Samuel Lee Truss in a ceremony held in Talladega. Samuel's military service in the Navy took the couple to different locations, such as Virginia and Rhode Island, before they eventually returned to their beloved Talladega in September of 1982. Family was the cornerstone of Juanita's life. She and Samuel were blessed with two children, Karen Denise Truss and Kelvin Truss. Sadly, Samuel passed away in February of 1993, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Juanita's devotion to her family extended beyond her immediate household. She was a proud grandmother to Kaleb Samuel Truss and Luttreal Dwayne Truss, finding immense joy in watching them grow. Juanita's inquisitive nature led her to explore the world through travel. She embarked on adventures to various destinations, including London and Hawaii, often accompanied by her daughter, Karen. Her unwavering support for the Auburn Tigers, her son Kelvin's alma mater, was evident through her love for college football, which led her to attend the 2011 National Championship game. Juanita most enjoyed quality time with family and friends. A keen observer, Juanita found pleasure in people watching, a simple joy that reflected her deep appreciation for human connection. Her warm smile and genuine interest in others left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to cross her path. Juanita Lawler Truss, peacefully passed away on September 5, 2023, after bravely battling illness, at the age of 79, surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, her dedicated parents, her older brother, James Lawler Jr., her sister, Patricia Ann Lawler Scales, and brother-in-law, Lamar Lane. Juanita leaves a legacy of love and memories to forever be cherished by her children, Karen Denise Truss and Kelvin (Tanisha) Truss; her sister, Barbara Lane; her brother-in-law, William Wallace (Beverly) Truss; her grandsons, Kaleb Samuel Truss and Luttreal Dwayne Truss; her special niece, Stephanie Renee (Maurice) Dates; and a host of extended family members and friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Tributes

Juanita Truss

March 26, 1944 - September 5, 2023