Juanita Sanchez Crusett

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Juanita S. Crusett, on August 28, 2025, at the remarkable age of 98. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving family.

Juanita was born on July 10, 1927, though for many years, we celebrated her birthday on July 27. Who knew!

Her story began in Puerto Rico, where she was raised by her grandparents after losing her parents at an early age. Our family's proud heritage traces back to Spain more than 100 years ago. As a young woman, Juanita eventually made her way to the mainland United States to begin a new chapter in her life.

Juanita was a lifelong nurturer. She served as a foster parent, teacher, and childcare provider for many years. Her career began in New York and continued after she moved to Florida, where she taught at her church and at a local daycare center. Her love for children was unwavering, and she continued to care for little ones until the age of 87, when she finally retired.

She was married to Rafael J. Crusett until his passing in December 2017. Together, they built a strong and loving family.

Juanita is survived by her four children: Luis R. Crusett, Sr., Irene M. Owen, Soila M. McGill, and RitaMariea Crusett-Vogel, along with their spouses. She also leaves behind ten grandchildren; as well as many great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren; too many to count, but all cherished.

Juanita had a deep passion for caring for children and delighted in cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events whenever she could. A proud New York Yankees fan, she never missed a chance to root for her team.

She was the heart and soul of her family, a rock, a comfort, and a source of strength. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and later attended Calvary Baptist Church until she was no longer able to do so regularly. Her faith, love of life, and contagious sense of humor brought joy to everyone around her.

Everywhere she went, she made people feel welcomed and loved. Even those who met her just once often claimed her as their “Grandmother". We were truly blessed to have had her in our lives.