Juanita Mae Carney, lovingly known to many as “Nita,” passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on December 23, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on August 30, 1940, in Howe, Texas, Grayson County, Juanita lived a life defined by faith, family, and a generous heart that touched countless lives.

She was born to Hulen Virginia Morris and Thelma Lenora (Beavers) Morris, who instilled in her the values of hard work, love, and devotion to God; values she carried throughout her life and passed on to future generations.

Juanita was united in marriage to her beloved husband, Johnny Mack Carney, who preceded her in death. Together, they built a family rooted in love and resilience. She was a devoted mother to Ricky (Laurie) Roe, Tangie Carney, Laura (Mike) Casio, Stacey (Charles) Jones, and Queen Kay McCarthy. Her greatest earthly joy was being “Nanny” to her grandchildren: Ronnie, Justin, Katie, Little Rick, Chad, Jacy, Kailee, Scott, Tosha, Kendra, Brittany, Maegan, Cody, and Haley, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her siblings Larry Morris, Bobby Morris, and Virginia Haliburton. She is survived by her loving brothers and sisters: Gene Morris, Gary Morris, Peggy Vanhorn, and Kathy Mercer, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Juanita attended Sherman High School during the 1955–1956 school year. A true entrepreneur at heart, she later became the proud owner of Nita’s Country Kitchen in Venus, Texas. Her café became a beloved community gathering place, where people traveled miles to enjoy her famous pies and legendary chicken-fried steaks. Her talent and dedication earned her television features and newspaper articles; a testament to the warmth and excellence she poured into everything she did.

Above all else, Juanita’s passion was her family. She treasured family vacations—especially trips to the lake—laughter-filled card games, board games, and the cherished tradition of spending time together year after year. Her kitchen was the heart of the home, where family recipes were lovingly prepared and passed down through three generations.

A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Juanita dearly loved her Jesus. She found joy and strength in Bible study and lived her life as a quiet testimony of God’s grace, kindness, and steadfast love.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she is now rejoicing in Heaven, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

A celebration of Juanita’s life will be held on January 17, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Wade Family Funeral Home.

Her legacy of faith, love, hospitality, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.