June 20, 1917 – December 15, 2012 Juanita F. Proffitt, 95, of Madison County, NC, passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, December 15th. Born in Whittier, NC, she was the daughter of the late William S. Farmer and Ollie D. Nelson farmer. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Brank Proffitt, and a sister, Aloha Farmer Vann. Juanita was an outstanding educator and a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, an honor society for educators. She faithfully supported her husband, Dr. Brank Proffitt, who was a highly respected school administrator. Juanita and Brank were active church members at Mars Hill Baptist Church. Juanita is survived by son John Proffitt and his wife, Cathy, of Burlington, NC; sister Jeanette F. Bryson of Sylva, NC; one nephew, Nelson Bryson of Greensboro, NC; one niece, Wenona Nelson of Newport News, VA, and several grand and great-grand nieces and nephews. Juanita and her longtime best friend and fellow educator, Lucile Stone, traveled to Russia, China, Japan and many European countries. Juanita had insatiable travel interests. In later years she enjoyed trips with daughter-in-law Cathy Proffitt. Fascinated by hummingbirds, Juanita provided them homes and food, often serving ten pounds of sugar in a day. It was a joy to visit and observe dozens of the tiny creatures flitting around her front porch. An avid reader, collector, and skilled interior decorator, Juanita had an impeccable sense of style. She was a life-long scholar and student. A friend to many, she was an active supporter of education and of numerous charities. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 18th at 11am in Mars Hill Baptist Church. Dr. Tommy Justus will officiate. The family will friends immediately following the funeral service. A private burial will be held Tuesday afternoon. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Brank and Juanita Farmer Proffitt Scholarship Fund at Western Carolina University.