Juanita Fontanez

Juanita Fontanez, a cherished matriarch, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the remarkable age of 95. Born on February 28, 1930, in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and family. Beloved wife of the late Julio Fontanez, with whom she shared 50 wonderful years of marriage.

Juanita’s legacy lives on through her children: Paul Rivera, Jr., Yvette Santaella and Jeanette Mayhugh. She was a devoted mother whose guidance and love shaped generations. Proud and loving grandmother of Annette, Linda, Amy, Anna, Dawn, Nicole, Joshua, Ivelis and Michael. Her joy multiplied as she became a great-grandmother of sixteen.

Juanita was the heart of her family, her greatest joy came from spending time with her loved ones, and her friends at church, she was the longest member of her church. Her warmth, her unforgettable smile, and her infectious laugh brought light to every room she entered. She loved her walks, her yard sales and loved her Chinese food.

Juanita leaves behind a legacy of faith, devotion, tradition, and love that will live on in the hearts of all who had the blessing of knowing her.

Family and friends are welcome on Friday, May 23, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Slone & Co. Life Celebration Center 3556 W. 130th St. Cleveland, OH 44111, where a funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 11 a.m. Interment Riverside Cemetery.