Juanita Salinas, 88, of Fort Worth, Texas passed away on Jan. 25, 2026. She was a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, and friend whose boldness, strength, and lifelong dedication to her family and community impacted everyone who knew her.
Juanita was born to Aurelia and Ascencion Salinas. Her father, Ascencion, worked on the railroad, instilling in Juanita a deep respect for hard work and perseverance, while her mother, Aurelia, nurtured a love of family, tradition, and community. She grew up in the Worth Heights neighborhood of Fort Worth, Texas, and graduated from Trimble Tech High School, where she built lifelong friendships and began a life devoted to service, family, and cultural involvement.
Juanita was known for her love of baseba her activism, steady presence, and deep love for her family. Alongside her brothers, she helped manage Guys and Dolls, a once popular local ballroom, where she worked with family and community members to host music and dance events that brought people together. She fondly remembered and spoke of the many artists and performers who graced the venue, highlighting her role in preserving and celebrating Mexican-American culture in Fort Worth.
A passionate advocate for her heritage, Juanita was deeply involved in the Mexican American community. One of these ways was her instrumental involvement in helping start the Diez y Seis de Septiembre Parade, creating a celebration that honors Mexican-American history, pride, and tradition in Fort Worth. Her commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement left a lasting impact on generations.
Her surviving family recognizes the profound loss of the last matriarch of the Salinas family, whose memory and impact will forever inspire those who knew her.
Juanita is survived by her brother Gabriel Salinas, of Tampico, Mexico, and three generations of nieces and nephew who will forever treasure her memory and the lessons she shared throughout her life. Her legacy of service to her family and community will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A service to celebrate Juanita’s life will be held at Mount Olivet on Wednesday, March 25 at 12:00 p.m.
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