Juanita was born in Requa on November 25, 1927 and passed away March 21, 2016 at her home in McKinleyville.

Juanita lived a blessed life, though not free from heartbreaks. In 1945 Juanita married James (Jim) Letson, who was “a tall drink of water” and made her heart pound. They had 38 years together and had five children. They lived in many places, but made their home on the Trinidad Rancheria, where Juanita was one of the original members.

Her life began to change with the passing of her husband and daughter both in 1983. By the grace of God she was able to begin a new life. It was during her travels and enjoying new interests such as swimming and dancing that she met her marathon-running Jewish poet, Ira Samuels. They married October 15, 1985 and shared 25 years together before his passing.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Richard, Anita, Betty and Kenneth, her husbands, and her children James Letson Jr. and Nola Mulkins.

Juanita is survived by her sons David (Susie) Letson, Larry (Rosie) Letson and Daniel (Liz) Letson, her step-children Stephanie (Don) MacGregor , Victoria (Terry) Samuels, and son-in-law Garry Mulkins. She is also survived by her grandchildren Nikki, Brian, Jacob, Michael (Kristina), and Bill, as well as by her step-grandchildren Melissa, Aaron, Jason and West, and numerous nieces and nephews. Juanita was overjoyed by the births of her great-grandchildren Tristan, Brandon, and Kadence.

Services will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 11:00am at Church of the Joyful Healer, 1944 Central Avenue, McKinleyville. A potluck celebration of life will follow at Dow’s Prairie Grange, 3995 Dow’s Prairie Rd, McKinleyville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society and Food for People.

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The obituary above was submitted by Juanita Samuels’ family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.