Juanita (Cupp) Noakes, 74, of Elk City, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2026. A woman of boundless warmth, infectious joy, and an unmistakable spark. Juanita danced through life to the beat of her own drum, leaving a trail of laughter, handmade keepsakes, and sweet memories everywhere she went.

An avid gardener and crafty creator, Juanita found beauty and possibility in everything around her. Her home and heart were always overflowing with thriving plants, stacks of vibrant fabric, good food, and unique finds that caught her eye. She was a natural problem-solver and a fountain of everyday wisdom. She always knew the exact trick to get any stain out, had the answer for anything that needed cleaning, and if you came to her with a new project, she was genuinely excited to dive in, learn more, and help you figure it out.

Juanita expressed love best through giving, and she never showed up empty-handed. While there were always warm hugs and beautiful smiles, she loved to delight coworkers and friends with handmade gifts and baked goods. Come autumn, her kitchen turned into a joyful production line as she baked countless batches of her famous pumpkin rolls.

Her happiest days were spent in the company of those she held closest. Juanita shared an extraordinary, unbreakable bond with her sister, Jeannie, a lifelong connection of heart and soul that anchored her world. Together with her beloved "bestie" Pam, they formed an inseparable trio: constant companions, confidantes, and partners-in-crime. Whether playing "practice" Canasta or floating on the lake in their shared paddleboat, they treasured quiet, sun-soaked afternoons and the kind of deep belly laughs that ended in tears. Guided by a steady faith, she also found immense joy in singing alongside her church family and celebrating lifelong connections throughout her community.

Above all, Juanita had a remarkable capacity for love and family that only grew wider with time. She had a rare gift for keeping circles unbroken, warmly sharing holidays and milestones across blended families, and welcoming bonus children into her heart as her own. Her daughters were the absolute lights of her life and proudly carry forward her creative spirit and wonderful eccentricities.

Yet among all her titles, none brought her more pride and joy than being "Nena" to her beloved grandchildren. She was their biggest cheerleader, their soft place to land, and the steady anchor who made sure they never doubted how deeply they were adored.

Juanita is survived by her devoted daughters and sons-in-law, her cherished grandchildren, her brothers and sisters, her bonus children, and a wide, loving circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and lifelong friends.

Juanita always said that remembering someone should bring people together in love and gratitude. Honoring her vibrant way of living, her family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date to swap stories, lift up favorite songs, and celebrate the immense light and laughter she brought into the world. While she will be deeply missed, Nena's spirit lives on in every fresh slice of pumpkin roll or zucchini bread, every blooming garden, every warm corn bag, every clever household fix, and the deep love she gave so freely.