Juana (Driskill) Lanier

Juana Driskill Lanier was born in Hayti, Missouri, on October 17, 1970.  She was the daughter of Dayle Driskill and Margret Sue Malin.

She departed this life in Ocala, Florida, on May 19, 2026.  She was 55 years old.

Juana graduated from Caruthersville High School.  After high school, she started working at Aztar Casino.  She later worked as an office manager and secretary.

She enjoyed getting out and exploring new areas and learning about famous people that had lived there.  Playing solitaire on the computer was something she enjoyed.  Two songs that were always her favorites were “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell and “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor.

She is survived by four children: Cody Newton, Dylan Howe, Sydney Green and Ethan Green; two sisters: Donna Russell and Carla Cecil; one brother: Mike Russell; her grandchildren: Rowan Green, Owen Newton, and Tobias Newton; a nephew: Trevor Cooper; and other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the H.S. Smith Funeral Chapel, with Brother Jim Pilcher officiating. 

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m.

H.S. Smith Funeral Home in charge of services.

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