Juanita Dawn Small

It is with heartfelt sympathy we announce the transition of Juanita Dawn Small of Collinsville, AL, who transitioned on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the age of 44.  We ask that you keep her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow.

Juanita Dawn Small was born on August 15, 1981 to the late Mr. Anthony Small and the late Wanda Ann Small.

At an early age, Dawn accepted Christ and later became a devoted member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, joining under the leadership of the late Rev. Morgan Brown. She didn’t just attend—she showed up. From helping with church activities to lending a hand wherever needed, she was a steady presence in her church and community.

She was truly rare—the baby of the family who somehow managed to have the biggest heart in the room. She loved her family deeply and made sure everyone knew it, especially her nieces and nephews, who were her pride and joy. Whether she was cheering them on, fussing at them, or just checking up on them, she made each of them feel special, especially with her “proud moment” posts.   Conversations with her could lift your spirits, make you laugh, or simply remind you that you were not alone. She loved gatherings—good food, laughter, and togetherness brought her great joy. Dawn graduated from Collinsville High School and Gadsden State Community College LPN program. Dawn was a natural caregiver. Taking care of others was not just her job—it was who she was. She also had a voice she loved to use, often filling rooms with song.

Dawn departed this life on April 16, 2026. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Among those who will forever cherish her memory, she leaves her step-mom, Natalie Small; her brothers, Christopher (Cassandra) Small, Derrick Small, and Shawn (Shelby) Small; her sister, Candace Sanders; her brother-in-law, Corey Sanders; her sisters-in-law, Kara and Desiree Evans; her nieces, Chantaye Davis, Martika (Josh) Foxworth, Markiela Acosta, Terrica Justice, and Saniya Sanders; and her nephews, Corderra Dupree, Xavier Small, Deklon Sanders, and Jett Justice, along with a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, loved ones, friends, and special friends, Preston Hill, Natasha Jones, and Susie Bowers. Dawn lived a life full of love, laughter, faith, and care for others. She may have been the baby of the family, but her impact was anything but small—and she will be missed more than words can ever express.

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