Juanita "Sweet Pea" M. Giles

Juanita M. Giles, fondly known as "Sweet Pea," passed away peacefully on February 15, 2024, in Hartford, Connecticut. She was born in Savannah, Georgia, on January 24, 1933, to the late Julia and Henry Frazier. In 1960, Juanita moved to Hartford from Miami, Florida.  

Throughout Juanita's life, she dedicated herself to fostering children and providing unconditional love and care to over one hundred foster children. Juanita loved and cherished her family. 

Entrepreneurs at heart, Juanita and her Husband Abe owned and operated several businesses, including dry cleaners, laundromats, pool rooms, a grocery store, a supermarket, and managed numerous parking lots. Juanita was the foundation of all their endeavors.  

In 1962, Juanita was pivotal in establishing the Northeast Civic Association, demonstrating her commitment to community service. She remained deeply involved in her community, working alongside her husband in various capacities, including voter registration drives and supporting political candidates. Juanita was not only active in politics but also in community outreach. She assisted senior citizens with groceries, meals, transportation, and personal care. Juanita and Abe Giles's Family Day Picnic was a testament to their dedication to giving back to their community.

Juanita retired after twenty-five years of service at the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, where she worked as an Analyst in the Emission Department and Administrator of Registration and Licenses. Her hard work, compassion, and infectious smile touched the lives of many.    

Juanita was actively involved in numerous organizations. In 1955, Juanita was a founding member of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., Greater Hartford Section, and of the Greater Hartford Progressive Democratic Woman’s Club. Juanita also served as the Vice President of The Northeast Area Associates. She was a member of the Black Democratic Club, CT Federation of Black Democratic Women's Club, St. Michael 's-St. Justin's Catholic Church, Knights of Peter Clever Ladies, and the NAACP, among others, her contributions to these many organizations will be remembered fondly.   

Her motto, "Reach One, Teach One," epitomized her dedication to mentoring and empowering young people. Alongside her husband, Juanita taught countless individuals the importance of civic engagement, providing them with invaluable life skills. Juanita was a "Phenomenal Woman".  

Juanita leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and kindness. Her children will deeply miss her Radames(Olga) Vazquez, Harry and Evelyn Figueroa; Grandchildren Miles, Feminique, Jasmin, Farrah, Juan, Joshua, and Jordan; Great-Grandchildren Kailah, Jermain, Faustino IV, Zaina, Jazlynn, Nico, Mateo, Jaylon, Treyson, Jacob, Jaxon and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Juanita was predeceased by her beloved husband of 60 years, Abe Giles, her siblings Henry Frazier, Leroy Brown, Nathaniel Brown, Virginia Washington, Louise Nicholson, and grandson Faustino Avilies, III.     

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