Juanita Burwell

Juanita Burwell (Bryant) was born on September 23, 1942, in Jacksonville, FL, to Marie (Bryant) Payne and Forris Benjamin Payne Sr. Her family later relocated to Plains, GA, where she attended school until the 10th grade. The family then moved to Elizabeth, NJ, where she completed her final three years of high school, graduating from Battin High School.

In high school, Juanita met her future husband, Henry Burwell. They dated for three years and were married on May 13, 1961, following her graduation. From their union, two daughters, Patrice and Cassandra, were born.

Throughout her life, Juanita worked for several organizations, including Trinity Bag and Paper Company, Western Electric, Culligan Water, and Allstate Insurance. In 1969, she joined the WENEWARK Federal Credit Union, becoming a member of the Credit Committee in the 1970s and elevating to the Board of Directors in the 1980s. She resigned from her position when WENEWARK merged with Advanced Financial FCU in 2016. Her career path then led her to the Somerset County Courthouse, where she worked for many years until her retirement.

Juanita enjoyed traveling, cooking, and decorating her home. She was a dedicated supporter of her friends and family, making it a custom to always be present for their milestones, including graduations, weddings, birthday parties, and business openings.

Juanita transitioned on July 20, 2026.

She is lovingly remembered by her family: her husband, Henry Burwell; her children, Patrice Burwell and Cassandra Richey; her grandson, Troy Richey; her brother, Forris Benjamin Payne Jr.; and the many cherished friends who shared in her life. She leaves behind a circle of relatives and loved ones whose lives were deeply touched by her generosity, humor, and unwavering spirit.

May Juanita rest in eternal peace, reunited with those who went before her, and forever held in God's loving embrace.