Naomi Juanita Zinke's Obituary
Juanita ( née Montfort)Morrison Zinke Juanita Zinke died peacefully on February 18, 2026. She was born on March 12, 1926 to Roy and Eva Pearl Montfort. She leaves a legacy of love, faith, curiosity and quiet strength. Juanita was preceded in death by her beloved husbands, Vincent Morrison and Dr. Paul Zinke. She was a devoted and loving mother to Marianne Morrison, Diane (Tom) Filmore and step-mother to Paula Guffey. She cherished her granddaughter Amy Nassar (Josh), and a proud great-grandmother to Naomi, Justice and Janis. Family meant everything to Juanita, and her joy multiplied with each generation. She also held a special place in her heart for her niece and nephews-Patricia Higgins, Michael J Higgins, Roy Montfort and the late Kenneth Larry Higgins-whom she adored dearly. An original Rosie the Riveter, Juanita exemplified determination, skill and resilience. She was an expert needle woman, a gifted quilter, and a lifelong learner with an insatiable curiosity about the world. She delighted in taking mechanical objects apart and restoring them to working order. Juanita eagerly embraced new technologies well into her later years. Juanita was an ardent patriot and a devoted Christian. She was a longtime member of Union Congregational Church in Tavares, Florida, and a founding member and past-president of the Lake County Quilters, an organization that continues to flourish today. She also proudly maintained her seventy- five year membership in the Order of the Eastern Star. Although she lived in Florida for more than fifty years, Juanita always considered Louisville her true home, carrying it in her heart and spirit wherever she went. Juanita will be remembered for her deep faith, boundless curiosity, gentle wisdom and abiding love for her family. Her life was one of purpose, service and quiet joy. She leaves an enduring imprint on all who were blessed to know her. Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
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