Juanita Knowles Austin was born on February 8, 1923 to Lawrence G. Knowles and Louise Knowles in Fort Pierce, Florida. Juanita was raised in Millerton, Long Island where her Bahamian family roots were established. She was the eldest of her five siblings – Celeste, Simeon Peter, Janet, George and William.

As a young adult, Juanita returned to the U.S. circa 1946 where she worked, married and made Florida her lifelong home. Settling in Dania, she developed enduring friendships with neighboring families – the Burrows, Turnquest, Cartwright, Parker, King, Warren, and Collins families. Juanita also established deep spiritual roots, becoming an active member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church (Hollywood, Florida) where she immersed herself in the life of the Church for over 60 years – serving in Vestry, as President of ECW (Episcopal Church Women), and as a Charter member of the Lillian-Rebecca Chapter of the Daughters of the King. Her lay service included singing in the Choir, lending her beautiful soprano voice in praise. She likewise supported the upkeep of the building, and was often found cleaning the church or polishing the brass candleholders and altar vessels. Juanita loved church fellowship and time spent with her St. Andrews family.

Juanita married Thelmond Austin in May 1952, and became stepmother to Thelma Marie, Theresa and Alphonso Austin. Juanita was also a loving godmother to Rodney Collins and Tyrone Ash.

Juanita worked in the home of Dr. Thomas Parker and family for 38 years, and was an extended member of the family. She lovingly cared for Steven and Debbie from childhood through adulthood, and enjoyed their successes as her own. Juanita also worked for the Hall family, and Carter family – sharing a special bond with son Gary, among many lasting generational ties.

A life loved and well lived describes the 97-year journey of Juanita’s earthly presence. She was pragmatic, humorous, insightful, and a dedicated Christian servant. In her elder years, she was cared for by friends, neighbors and family; and supported by the St. Andrews Church family.

Juanita K. Austin is survived by one brother, William Knowles (Millerton, Long Island), stepchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends in the U.S. and Bahamas. Juanita was predeceased by her parents and four siblings – George Knowles, Celeste Roker, Peter Knowles and Janet Roker.

A Visitation to be held on Friday, May 15, 2020 from 10:00 AM at Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care at 6400 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, Florida 33024. A Graveside service will immediately follow at Dania Memorial Park.  

During these trying and difficult times, a live video stream will be available to our families that we serve.  Please “like” our Facebook page to join us for our live stream service beginning at 12 PM; https://www.facebook.com/BPFamilyFuneralCare/

Due to attendance size restrictions imposed on us by this pandemic, please contact her family or our funeral home for more specific funeral information.

Please note modifications may take place regarding Visitation/Services due to the Coronavirus . Boyd-Panciera is following local and state guidelines and is taking all the necessary precautions to ensure the safety and health to our families and staff to halt the spread of COVID-19. Please call the funeral home for updates and possible changes to this service.