Juanita "Nita" Edwards Whitehead

Raleigh – Juanita “Nita” Edwards Whitehead, age 99, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Saturday, February 7, 2026.  Born in Nash County, NC on July 25, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Repard Lee “R.L.” Edwards, Sr. and Beulah Mae Lewis Edwards.  She was also preceded in death by her husband, Jefferson Draughn Whitehead, Sr.; her brother, Repard Lee “R.L.” Edwards, Jr.; and her sister, Louise Edwards Abernathy.

Nita and her husband, Jeff, raised their two children in Enfield and were married for 64 years.  She was an active part of the community there as well as on Big Pine Key, FL, where she spent 28 winters. Especially good at floral arranging, decorating, and playing bridge, she loved to entertain family and friends.  Nita remained a strong supporter of Enfield and especially the United Methodist Church.  About five years after Jeff passed away, she relocated to Raleigh.  Anyone fortunate to have met Nita will never forget her upbeat outlook on life and her kindness.  A devoted and loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and dear friend to many Juanita will be deeply missed both near and far and never forgotten.

Nita is survived by her son, Jefferson “Jeff” Draughn Whitehead, Jr. (Jennie); her daughter, Bonnie Whitehead; her granddaughter, Draughn Bishop Arbona (Tony); her great-grandchildren, Sebastian and Lyra Arbona; her niece, Jane Baker (Dave); her nephew, Wayne Abernathy (Gaynelle); and many extended family members and dearest friends.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Nita’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Enfield United Methodist Church, 209 Whitfield Street, Enfield, NC 27823.  Burial will follow the service at Elmwood Cemetery.  Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM prior to the service at the church.  Following the graveside services, a reception to celebrate Nita’s life will be held at Bellamy Manor & Gardens, 613 Glenview Road, Enfield, NC 27823.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.