Dixie Juanita Baxley Cruce Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Dixie Juanita Baxley Cruce, 94, went to her glory early Saturday morning, May 14, 2022, after a lengthy battle with cancer. Eldest daughter of the late William “Willie” and Nena Tye Baxley, Juanita was born in Geneva Co., AL, and raised on farms in Geneva Co. and in Holmes Co., FL. She was a 1947 graduate of Holmes Co. High School, Bonifay FL. In 1949, she moved to Tallahassee where she met her husband, Edward M. Cruce. They were married on August 22, 1952 and had 49 years together. Juanita was known for her beautiful smile, kindness, and dedication to her family, church, and community. Until her illness she had been very active, serving in different leadership roles in the Joy Bible Study Class, singing in the Joy Sr. Choir at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee, volunteering with Women on Missions, visiting homebound friends and church members, participating as a member of the Tallahassee Garden Club, and serving as an elections poll worker. Juanita worked into her mid-70s, retiring from Sears and Roebuck Co. and the State of FL. Juanita was predeceased by her husband, Ed, son, Michael, three brothers (JB, Harold, and Lloyd); and four sisters (Margaret Murphy, Bertha Register, Flora Register and Nora Edgerton). Left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Renee Cruce Starrett, Tallahassee, brother, George Baxley, Slocomb, AL, many nieces and nephews, family members, and friends. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her. The family are extremely grateful to the staff and care providers at Brookdale Hermitage and Big Bend Hospice for their loving and compassionate care of Juanita. A celebration of life service will be held at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee on Monday, May 23, 2022 at 2pm. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 4, 2022, 10am at Tallahassee Memory Gardens, 4037 N. Monroe St. The family suggests in lieu of flowers, memorial donations to American Cancer Society, Big Bend Hospice, First Baptist Church of Tallahassee, or their charity of choice.

Dixie Juanita Baxley Cruce

December 5, 1928 - May 14, 2022