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Juanita Mallard Rodriguez, 75, longtime cafeteria manager with New Hanover County Schools

Juanita Mallard Rodriguez
Juanita Mallard Rodriguez

WILMINGTON — In the early afternoon of Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016, the world let go it’s grip on Juanita Mallard Rodriguez and released her to the universe. Her valiant fight with illness came to an end with quiet peace. Her husband of 51 years, Juan Rodriguez, was by her side, quietly whispering, “I love You.”

She was born in Wilmington, North Carolina, on Dec. 30, 1940.

She grew up in Wilmington and graduated from New Hanover High School. She was a well traveled military wife, having spent time in Alaska, Texas, Missouri, Georgia, and Puerto Rico.  She was retired from the New Hanover County Schools as a Cafeteria Manager after 20 years of service.

She was preceded in death by her father, Woodrow “PeeWee” Mallard and her mother, Ann Lineberger. Also her sisters, Freda Dickins and Geraldine Krasky.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Juan “Johnny” Rodriguez; children, Johnny Ray Rodriguez, Frank Denmark and Linda Denmark; two grandchildren; her brother and sister in-law, John and Carolyn Mallard of Wilmington; nieces and nephews including Tony, John, and Lisa Mallard; David Krasky (Terri) and other extended family and friends.

The family will see friends from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016, at Wilmington Funeral Chapel.

Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7, at Wilmington Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Park.

Remember Juanita with a special memorial donation to Lower Cape Fear Hospice Foundation by visiting www.tmcfunding.com

Share memories and condolences with the family at by clicking here.

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