Juanita L. Coyles
January 18, 1930 - April 6, 2025

Juanita L. Coyles, 95, passed away peacefully in her home on April 6, 2025. Born in Oklahoma on January 18, 1930, Juanita moved to Colorado when she was just 9 months old and later to Stockton to help with the family business during World War II. She then settled in Humboldt County in 1949.

On December 2, 1950, she married Ronald Coyles, the love of her life, after he wooed her and showed her in every possible way that she was the one for him. Their beautiful union lasted 47 years. They began their life together living behind Tapman Bakery in Arcata before purchasing their first home four years later in McKinleyville for $5000. After 15 years, they moved to their home in Eureka, where Juanita resided until 2014 when she relocated to Summer Creek Place.

Juanita led a rich and purposeful life, as a loving foster mother to 11 children before she and Ronald adopted their daughter Ronda. Her nurturing spirit knew no bounds. Throughout her working years, she served as a teacher’s aide, telephone operator, and worked in the medical field as a nurse’s aide and ultimately in physical therapy.

A woman of unwavering faith, Juanita was a lifelong member of the Nazarene Church. Although she could be stubborn about most things, she was steadfast in her beliefs and walked in faith throughout her life. She loved God and lived a spirit-filled life that touched everyone around her.

Juanita was preceded in death by her parents, Hiram and Lilly May Poff; her beloved husband, Ronald; 11 siblings and their spouses; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. As the last of her matriarch family, she leaves behind her daughter, Ronda Rex; grandson, Nick Hughes; granddaughter, Jessica Rex Altholff (Steven); and five great-grandchildren: Edward, Donovan, Christian, Steven, and Andrew. She also held a special place in her heart for her nieces Bonnie Vukonich and Elaine Nelson, as well as dear friends Sheila Darling, Pam Ross, and Debra Thompkins.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Juanita’s Nazarene family whom she held very dear, with special gratitude to Steve Berti, whom she held in the highest regard.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 18 at 11 a.m. at First Church of the Nazarene, 2039 E Street, Eureka.

Though she has left this earth, Juanita’s spirit, faith, and love continue to inspire all who knew her.

Juanita’s favorite Bible verse was John 10:27-30: My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. I and My Father are one.