Juanita Milford

Juanita Milford graciously entered into the world on November 28, 1956 in Cincinnati, Ohio to Ambus Middlebrooks and Betty Ann Milford.  Juanita gained her wings on Friday, June 23, 2023 with her daughter by her side.

Juanita grew up in Cincinnati’s Avondale community.  She attended Cincinnati public School and graduated from Hughes High School  in 1975.  Following her graduation, she was hired by The Katie Lamp Company.  She later went to work for The Wellsprings Retirement Home, where she worked as a dietary cook for nearly 13 years.  She then joined Gold Medal Products, where she worked as a machine operator for 13 years.  She met her ever-life partner, Lance Cantan at Gold Medal and they enjoyed life together for 21 years.  He preceded her in death April 27, 2023.

She was blessed with such a loving personality and caring spirit.  Prior to giving birth to her daughter, Whitney, she raised her three nephews as her sons, who affectionately called her “Aunt Nene.”  Juanita had an infectious laugh.  She could be funny one minute and serious the next.  She loved to travel with her family, dance, cook and spend time with her daughter.  She enjoyed attending her church, Forest Chapel United Methodist Church, where she was a devoted member for several years.  In her spare time, she enjoyed playing “Tonk” every Wednesday with ladies in her building and watching The Cincinnati Bengals.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ambus Middlebooks and Betty Milford; her life-partner, Lance Cantan; two brothers, Douglas Davis and Harvey Milford; son/nephew, Steven J. Milford.

Juanita leaves to cherish her one-and-only daughter, Whitney  “Boo” Smith; two sisters, Barbara (George) Alexander and Darlene Sims; two brothers, Donald Milford and Steven L. Milford; sister/cousin, Sharon Johnson; nephew/sons, Charles and Michael Milford.  Sh

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