Juanita Ballough Raudabaugh, Fierce Matriarch, Businesswoman, and Lifelong Learner, Dies at 86
Juanita Ballough Raudabaugh, 86, of Mechanicsburg, PA passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at The Bridges at Bent Creek. Born on November 6, 1938, in Birmingham, Alabama, she was the daughter of Denson Calvan Greene and Iona Gina McLaughlin. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Captain (O6, Ret) Richard L. Raudabaugh, USNR, and their cherished grandson, Jeffrey Suter.
A woman of relentless determination, Juanita never had the opportunity to attend college, yet she was a lifelong learner who educated herself in business and thrived as the owner and operator of Home Care Companions, a successful healthcare business she led for 25 years. She instilled in her children the value of education, inspiring them to achieve advanced degrees, including PhDs, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees. Two of her children were honored as Alumnus of the Year at Milton Hershey School, a testament to the legacy of excellence she fostered.
Like a lioness fiercely guarding her cubs, Juanita’s love and devotion to family were unwavering. She was the mother of five children and a guiding force in the lives of her three step-children, pouring her heart into raising and supporting them. She took immense pride in her 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, ensuring that each knew the depth of her love and strength.
A woman of action and adventure, Juanita and her husband, Richard, were world travelers, exploring the far corners of the earth together. In addition to their travels, she dedicated herself to service, achieving the rank of Division Staff Officer in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA, Tri-State Region). She was particularly passionate about the USCGA Academy Introduction Mission (AIM) Program, where her guidance helped exceptional high school students pursue careers at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.
Juanita was also deeply spiritual, spending much of her life exploring different faiths. In her final hours, she placed her trust in Jesus, much like the sinner crucified beside Him, and found peace. She now joins her beloved husband, Richard, who passed away in October 2024, in eternal rest.
She is survived by her children: Gerald P. H. (Daryl) Ballough of Drexel Hill, PA; William C. B. (Madeline) Harding of Ruskin, FL; Glenn M. (Betty) Ballough of Lake Mary, FL; Linda C. (Richard) Suter of Enola, PA; and Gina H. (Benjamin) Post of Erie, CO, as well as her step-children: Troy A. (Deneen) Raudabaugh of Boiling Springs, PA; Brian K. (Debra) Raudabaugh of Carlisle, PA; and Joni M. (Scott) Davis of Carlisle, PA. She also leaves behind her wonderful grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom she cherished deeply.
Juanita and Richard was laid to rest together in a dual-burial service at Arlington National Cemetery on February 28, 2025, where they will be honored for their service, dedication, and the life they built together.
Juanita Ballough Raudabaugh was a woman of strength, intellect, and deep devotion—a lioness in spirit, a leader in life, and a guiding light to those she loved. She leaves behind a legacy of courage, wisdom, and unwavering love that will live on in all who knew her.
The Sullivan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Raudabaugh family.