Juanita Lee Dean was born on October 2, 1939, in Boston, Massachusetts to the late Herbert E. and Rev. Dr. Juanita C. Small. She was the eldest of four children. Sadly, Juanita passed away on September 13, 2022, at Lahey Clinic in Burlington, MA after suffering a massive stroke.

Juanita, affectionately known as “Cookie” and “Auntie Cookie”, was 82 years old and had been surrounded by family in her final hours.

She used her prolific writing skills and love of reading to earn a Paralegal Certificate from Boston University. Through her tenacious application of the law, she wrote successful briefs and legal opinions for many people in the community who were justice involved. Cookie was also one of the first female business owners in Boston, operating a tropical fish and exotic pet store in the 1970s.

Auntie Cookie had an innate gift of being able to touch all generations; so spending time with her was always special, entertaining, and unforgettable. She was the life of the party! For her, love of family and her relationship with God were more precious than anything else.

Funeral Service, Saturday, September 17, 2022, in the Dolan Funeral Home, 1140 Washington Street, DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS AT 11 o’clock. Visting Hours 10 – 11 am. Interment Fairview Cemetery.