Juanita Dennison

DENNISON, Juanita, 96, passed away on April 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, strength, and unwavering love for her family. She was born on August 11, 1929, in Springfield, Ohio, to John (“Bud”) and Mary Catherine (Graham) Shultis. She graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1947 and began her career at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base as an administrative assistant. In 1952, she married the love of her life, Joseph Dennison, and together they built not only a marriage, but a life grounded in hard work, faith, and family. That same year, they started their own accounting firm, purchased their first home, and began raising their five children; something Juanita proudly described as living the American Dream. Through long hours and busy seasons, especially during tax time, Juanita was the strong foundation of a home filled with care, discipline, and love. Juanita and Joseph were deeply engaged in their community and the Democratic Party, where Juanita’s dedication and leadership earned her years of service on the Central and Executive Committees, along with numerous recognitions. She continued her commitment to others through her work with Forest Glen and the Clark County Board of Developmental Disabilities, always advocating with compassion and purpose. A woman of deep faith, Juanita was a devoted Catholic who found great meaning in serving as a Eucharistic minister at St. Raphael’s Church and administering communion to residents at Forest Glen. Her faith was not only practiced, but lived quietly, consistently, and generously. After Joseph suffered a CVA in 1974, they retired to Cape Coral, Florida, but Juanita’s heart never strayed far from her family. With children and grandchildren in Springfield, she traveled back and forth often, remaining steadfast in her devotion to being present in their lives. In 1998, they returned home to Springfield, where she remained a constant source of strength and guidance for her family. Above all else, Juanita was a remarkable mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother; strong, selfless, and endlessly supportive. She leaves behind five children: Cynthia, Nadine, and Joe Dennison; Carole Schmittauer; and Joette (Robert) Nash. She is also survived by nine grandchildren: Phillip Shaffer, Lindsey Shaffer, Dana and Joshua (Crystal) Steiner, Cami (Nathan Xavier) Schmittauer, Stephanie (Joseph) Callicoat, Gene (LeeAnn) Nash, and Matthew Nash; 14 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-granddaughters. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Dennison, and her grandson, Brian Schmittauer (Survived by Stephanie Shupe). Juanita will be remembered for her strength, her faith, her tireless work ethic, and the deep love she gave so freely to her family. Her presence shaped generations, and her legacy will live on in each of them. A Visitation will be held from 12:00 - 1:00 pm on Thursday, May 7th with a memorial service to follow at 1:00 pm in the CONROY FUNERAL HOME. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Project Woman, 525 E. Home Road Springfield, OH 45503.