Juanita Branch, 1936-2019

Juanita Meeks Branch, 83, of Lake Wales passed away Thursday, Dec. 5, 2019 at her residence.

She was born Aug. 14, 1936 in Eagle Lake to the late Thomas C. and Sally E. (Lane) Meeks. She has been a resident of the area since 1947 coming from Winter Haven. She was a retired administrator for the Public Defender's office in Polk County and has the distinction of serving under the first Public Defender LeRoy Horton and 3 of his successors. She was a member of the Lake Wales Country Club, and was an avid fisherman, enjoyed boating, flower and vegetable gardening.

She is preceded in death by her husband Grady "Earl" Branch, 3 brothers and 3 sisters.

She is survived by her daughter Karen D. Branch of Haines City, son Michael E. Branch of Lake Wales, sister Cora Acree of Orlando, 4 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held 10 a.m. until service time at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Marion Nelson Funeral Home with Pastor John Guzzetta officiating. Interment will be held at the Lake Wales Cemetery. For those who wish donations may be made to Cornerstone Hospice at 2445 Lane Park Road Tavares, FL. 32778.