Juanita D. (Wood) Spratley was born in Harlem Hospital, New York City on July 13, 1942, to Ida M. Wood and Henry Wood.

She was educated in the public schools of New York. Most memorably Wadleigh (IS88).

"Nita" was known and loved by many. She was extremely outspoken and would always remind everyone that "there ain't no shame to my game". She loved and depended on her mother, especially during difficult periods in her life.

The family moved to 114th Street when Juanita was two (2) years old. Nita lived on the block for 80 years. Needless to say, she was well known on 114th Street, and everyone knew not to mess with her or her children. She was "old school" meaning she would curse you out and hit you with her keys and please don't make her pull out her "Betsy". Before cell phones, Nita's "skeeet" could be heard from 8th Avenue down to 7th Avenue.

Juanita was predeceased by her father, Henry Wood and stepfather, Robert Ellis, her mother, Ida M. Ellis and brother, John Jordan and granddaughter, 'Ayeshah E. Ameen, foster parents, Albert and Eloise Love.

She is survived by her four children, Derick H. Wood, Elyse L. Shakur, Kevin J. Wood Shanice E. Spratley and Kelley Spratley (stepdaughter); one bonus son, aka "Pop", seven grandchildren, Tereasa Miller, Derick D. Wood, Nafeesha Williams, Larry J. Kirkland, Jr., Elyse J. Kirkland, (now known as Elizabeth Kirkland), Kevin Oliver, Shanice E. Straus, eleven great grandchildren, including a very devoted and loving great granddaughter, Sa'Myah Whitfield, one brother, Henry M. Ansari (Marilyn); two foster sisters, LaVerne Holiday and Laurie Blackwell and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.