Juanita Pritchett

Juanita Childers Pritchett, 87, of Vale, N.C., passed away July 4 at Catawba Valley Medical Center.

Born Sept. 17, 1932, in Otoe County, Neb., she was the daughter of the late Joseph A. Childers and the late Edith A. Bird Childers.

In addition to her parents, husband John J. Pritchett, brothers Wilber Childers, Joseph Childers and Jerry Childers, and sisters Edith C. Pauley and Connie C. Swanger preceded her in death.

Juanita was known as Grandma Bear — Grand (highest in rank, immense, awe-inspiring, most)/Ma mother (loving, protector, provider, teacher)/Bear (fierce, cuddly, to carry or support, as in bear the load).

Left to cherish her memory are two sons: James Pritchett and wife Juli Ann, of Ames; and Joseph Pritchett and wife Kimberly, of Vale, N.C.; two daughters: Julie P. Deaton and husband Ron, of Sherrills Ford, N.C.; and Jean P. Torbett and husband Brian, of Vale, N.C.; 14 grandchildren; 19 great- grandchildren; 193 foster children that she cared for.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Visit burkemortuary.com to register your condolences.

Burke Mortuary in Maiden, N.C., is serving the Pritchett family.