Juanita MacDonald

Juanita Valerie Marshall MacDonald, age 71, of Elizabeth City, NC, passed away at her home on August 5, 2025. Born on August 14, 1953, in Portsmouth, VA, she was the beloved daughter of the late John R. Marshall, Sr. and Emma V. Nucklos Marshall. She grew up in the Western Branch/Churchland area of VA, where her family owned Riverside Dairy on Taylor Road in Chesapeake, VA. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of family and community, values she carried throughout her life.

Juanita’s professional journey began as an insurance agent, a career she pursued with dedication at Allstate and later at Nationwide Insurance. In addition to her work in insurance, she was a Mary Kay cosmetics consultant, sharing her passion for beauty and empowerment with many. She also co-owned Valerie’s Antiques, where she showcased her love for these vintage treasures and their history.

Her heart found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly fishing alongside her fiancé, Ernest Simpson. It was during these treasured moments that she felt most at peace and truly happy. She was the matriarch of her family, known for her warmth and kindness. Her smile had the remarkable ability to brighten any room, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Juanita is survived by her devoted fiancé, Ernest Simpson; her loving children, sons Jack Wishon of Chesapeake, VA, and Samuel Jones of Poquoson, VA, and her daughter, JoAnne Balo of Chesapeake, VA. She is also survived by Nathaniel Simpson and his wife, Erica, of Franklin, VA. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Caleb, Draeva, Toby, Remy, Matthew, and Emma, and her great-grandchildren, Octavia and Evelyn.

A memorial service to celebrate Juanita’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to assist with final arrangements may be made to the Juanita_Marshall_MacDonald_Memorial_Service_Fund, in person at Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC, or mailed to Twiford Funeral Homes at P.O. Drawer 405, Elizabeth City, NC 27907.

Juanita Valerie Marshall MacDonald will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her radiant smile, and the joy she brought into the lives of those around her. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC, is serving the MacDonald Family. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.