Juanita Mildred Mcbeth

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Juanita Mildred McBeth, 84, passed away November 8th. Born on June 13, 1938, she was the second of five daughters born to Robert and Helen McBeth. Juanita graduated from Roosevelt High School, then went onto college at the University of Iowa where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree of Arts, majoring in Speech Pathology. She also obtained a Master’s Degree of Science from Drake University in Guidance and Counseling.

Two sons, Timothy and Benjamin, were lovingly raised by Juanita and had a very special place in her heart. They enjoyed laughing together, trying gourmet foods, and trips to California, Arizona, Jamaica, and Hawaii. Juanita’s four sisters were also an important part of her life. She was very proud of them. Each sister held special talents Juanita enjoyed and treasured.

Juanita’s career in Speech Pathology spanned decades, as she worked past her 80th birthday. She worked over 30 years for the Des Moines Public Schools and over 25 years for Central Rehabilitation, LLC. She wrote the children’s storybook One Happy Turkey which was published in 2022. Juanita cherished every person she worked with, age 1-100, and had a special gift for bringing out the best in each one.

Juanita loved life and people. She had many friends and many interests including quilting, cooking, music, Iowa Hawkeyes and writing. Juanita was a private pilot and enjoyed many family trips in their plane. She loved the Iowa Hawkeye Band, many Des Moines Symphony concerts with close friends, and pop concerts with her sons.

Juanita is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Helen McBeth, her son, Timothy Schempp, and sisters, Elizabeth Linn and Bonnie Douglass. She is survived by her son, Benjamin Schempp and sisters Lyn (Linden) Williams and Phyllis (David Ciarimboli) McBeth.

Juanita always loved Jesus her faith in God was instilled in Juanita’s life at an early age going to church with her parents & five sisters. She was a member of the Waukee Christian Church and found many ways to share her faith.

Juanita will be remembered for her love of family; friends and patients; and for her genuine joy of life itself.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Waukee Christian Church. Online condolences will be welcomed at www.caldwellparrish.com

The family wishes to thank the following for Juanita’s healthcare & support: Pastor Sue Woods, Dr Sarah Tallman D.O. and her nurse Rhonda, Dr. Joseph Gilg M.D., Dr. Andrea Swenson Neurologist, Iowa City Iowa., Dr Sarah Garner & Dr. Jay Rosenberger & all of the staff & nurses at Wesley Acres: The Hospice nurse staff & Hospice Pastor Tom Boomershine.