Juanita Barnes Harrell, affectionately known as “Nita-Baby,” 78, of Hamden, CT, entered eternal rest on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026.

She was born on April 17, 1947, in Wilson, NC, to the late Junious Barnes and Lizzie R. Mangum. Juanita attended Charles H. Darden High School in Wilson, NC, before relocating to New Haven, CT, where she later graduated from Wilbur Cross High School.

Juanita met the love of her life, James Henry Harrell, and they were united in marriage on December 16, 1967, in New Haven, CT. They shared 58 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with three children, of whom she was extremely proud and whom she loved dearly.

Juanita and James enjoyed participating in church activities, spending time with family, and traveling regularly to North Carolina; a tradition they faithfully maintained. Above all, Juanita was a devoted believer in God and served Him earnestly throughout her life.

She began her career at Yale New Haven Hospital as a dietary services worker. She later dedicated time to the New Haven Public School System before transitioning into a career in home healthcare, from which she eventually retired. While she valued her years of employment, Juanita found her greatest joy in caring for her family; preparing meals and baking cakes with love.

Juanita was a devoted member of St. Matthew's Unison Free Will Baptist Church, where she was honored to serve on the Mother Board and previously assisted on the Usher Board. During her years of service, she also sang with the St. James Unity Holiness Young Adult and Mass Choir.

She lived a full and meaningful life, cherishing family and friend’s gatherings that brought her immense joy and countless smiles. Juanita will be remembered by many for her peaceful spirit.

In addition to her husband, Juanita leaves to cherish in her memory her three children: Timothy J. Harrell of White Plains, MD; Gary L. Harrell (Gloria) of Columbia, SC; and JaNita J. Harrell of Charlotte, NC.

She also leaves four grandchildren: Shanaya Harrell of Charlotte, NC, Gabby Riviera (Luis) of Nashville, TN; Gerrin Harrell of Columbia, SC; and Geramiah Harrell of Columbia, SC.

She is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Isabella Riviera and Logan Riviera, and a third great-grandchild expected any day.

In addition, Juanita leaves eight siblings: William Long of Ohio; Deloris McNair (Odell) of Orange, CT; Junious Barnes (Carolyn) of Meriden, CT; Marvin Barnes of East Haven, CT; Ron Mangum of Rocky Mount, NC; Gwendolyn McCray of Rocky Mount, NC; Sharon Snipes-Harrison of New Haven, CT; and John Mangum (Nadine) of West Haven, CT; along with a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and her cherished church family.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Edward Barnes (Hazel) of Leland, NC.

A celebration of her life and legacy will be held Friday, April 17, 2026, at 11:00am at St. Matthew’s UFWB Church, 400 Dixwell Ave., New Haven, followed by burial in Beaverdale Memorial Park. Family and friends may attend a viewing at the church from 9:00am to 11:00am.

Well done, thy good and faithful servant!