Juan Menefee

Juan Fernandez Menefee was born in Chillicothe, Ohio, on January 24, I961, to Anne Menefee and John Jones. He grew up in Chillicothe, where he was baptized at St. Mary's Church. Guided by his faith as a Christian, he lived by the words of James 2:14-17: "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." His life reflected this scripture, as he matched his convictions with action in every pursuit. In his youth, Juan attended Bishop Flaget High School, where he excelled as both a star athlete and an honor roll student. His passion, drive, and determination were already clear - qualities that would continue to define him throughout his life. After high school, Juan pursued a Bachelor’s degree in marketing at the University of Cincinnati. While there, he accomplished many achievements. He founded the organization Black Business Students at UC, and in 198l, he pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity on the "New Era'' Line. Known to many as "Chill" -a nod to his roots in the small rural town of Chillicothe, Ohio, where there were few Black college graduates to emulate. On campus, he was active and was soon recognized as "The Man," not because of popularity but because of the respect he had earned through hard work and inspiring leadership. His involvement and dedication led to his recognition as Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Undergraduate of the Year in 1983. Juan was hired by Procter & Gamble immediately after graduating from UC -a prestigious start that reflected both his talent and determination. At P&G, he gained invaluable experience before going on to serve as a Market Manager for Frito-Lay, where he further distinguished himself as a dynamic leader in the corporate world. Building on the skills and expertise he had honed during his four years with P&G and Frito-Lay, Juan boldly launched his own business venture. In (1991), he founded Juan Menefee and Associates (JMA), a staffing agency that would become a premier force in executive recruitment. For 20 years, JMA thrived, proudly placing minority leaders in Fortune 500 companies and breaking barriers in industries where representation had long been limited. His vision and entrepreneurial spirit left an enduring legacy in business opening doors for those who followed. What brought Juan the most thrill in life was winning. He was highly competitive, sometimes to the point of being unpopular, but he always understood his objective and was determined to achieve it. Aggressive in his path from A to B, Juan was unwavering in walking his own path and fully committed to his goals. ln 1988, Juan married Dana Stratford, and in 1991 they welcomed a daughter, Clarke indigo (lndi) Menefee, who quickly became the light of their lives. Juan was also blessed with a son, Colby Menefee, born in the spring of 1998. His children were the center of his heart and the greatest source of his pride. A true "family man," Juan leaves behind many who will cherish his legacy, including his mother, Anne; his two children, lndi and Colby; and his twin brothers, Shannon and Shawn Menefee, whom he mentored and uplifted with earnestness. To Shawn and Shannon, Juan was "one hell of a big brother," always setting goals for them and. most profoundly, instilling in them the confidence to achieve them. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, members of his Omega Psi Phi Fraternity "New Era" line, and many special friends of the Menefee family. Juan carried an aura of confidence that everyone around him could feel. He had a unique gift for moving the needle while still having fun along the way. He embraced life with a sense of joy and adventure, savoring each moment to the fullest. Those who knew him understood that he was, truly, one-of-a-kind --a light whose impact will continue to shine through the lives he touched. The family will receive friends at the Haller Funeral Home & Crematory on Saturday, October 4th, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:30pm. An Omega Service will begin at 1:30pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 pm at St. Mary Catholic Church, 61 S. Paint Street, followed by burial at Grandview Cemetery.