Juanita Brooks Dossey

Juanita Brooks Dossey, a beloved mother and dedicated educator, passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at the age of 93. Born on August 1, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Rev. Paschal Hubert Brooks and Laura Elizabeth McCoin Brooks.

A proud graduate of Allen County High School in Kentucky, she continued her education at Peabody College of Education, graduating in the spring of 1954. Following her graduation, Juanita began her teaching career at Allen County High School, later becoming a cherished high school science teacher at Cohn High School and Pearl-Cohn High School in Nashville. Her deep commitment to her students was evident in her teaching of Chemistry, Biology, and Science, often referring to them affectionately as her "babies." Juanita retired in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge and inspiration in the hearts of students.

Throughout her teaching years, Juanita took on various roles outside the classroom, sponsoring the student council, cheerleading, and the Science Club. She was a familiar face at ball games and eagerly participated in school trips, further enriching the lives of those around her. Her dedication to her profession and her students was a testament to her vibrant personality and the passion she held for her work.

In addition to her role as an educator, Juanita was an exceptional seamstress, making nearly all of her clothes as a young lady. This talent highlighted her creativity and dedication to personal expression. She also cherished taking family vacations to Gatlinburg and Hilton Head, South Carolina, creating lasting memories with her loved ones. She was a lady of strong Christian faith and a member of McFerrin Missionary Baptist Church. 

Juanita’s proudest accomplishment was her enduring love story with her husband, John. They first met when she was just 12 years old after her father had taken over the ministry of Maple Grove Baptist Church in Fountain Run, Kentucky, quickly forming a close friendship that would evolve over the years. Their paths crossed again while John was serving in the military, and they were soon to be married, going on to raise three children together.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband John Nealy Dossey; sons Danny Lee Dossey and John N. Dossey, Jr.

She is survived by her son, Paschal Mark Dossey; daughter, Melissa Juanita Dossey; brother Col. (Ret) Lawrence D. Brooks; 5 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews who carry on her legacy of love, strength, and dedication.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 27, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. A Celebration of Life conducted by Rev. Kenneth Massey will take place the following day, Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 12pm noon. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens in Goodlettsville. Pallbearers will be John Mark Dossey, Andrew Nealy Dossey, Grant Crombie, Wes Brummet, Presley Nave, Jr., and Erik Black.

Juanita Brooks Dossey will always be remembered for her compassion, her unwavering commitment to her family and students, and her zest for life. She touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her.