Juanita Ruby Danberger

Juanita Ruby Danberger,  graced this world on April 2, 1943, in the quaint town of Darwin, Oklahoma, the youngest of nine children. She departed from this earthly realm on February 8, 2025, in Austin, Texas.

Nita, as she was affectionately known, arrived in Bastrop, Texas, in 1986, where she would become a well-known figure in the community during her 16 years as the owner of Castle Restaurant. Her kitchen was a tapestry of flavors, where the rich aroma of fried chicken mingled effortlessly with the sweet temptation of her famous peach cobbler. Locals and visitors alike flocked to her establishment, not only for the food but for the comradery that Nita infused into every meal served.

Beyond her culinary prowess, Nita had an innate passion for a good suspense, often indulging in “whodunits” during her downtime, savoring the twists and turns that books and shows presented. She also enjoyed her bingo time and trips to Louisiana and Vegas with friends. 

While living her final year with her family, Nita rediscovered her love for animals, allowing the gentle purrs and wagging tails to enrich her life even further. The past year, spent surrounded by loved ones, was marked by heartfelt connections and the joy that furry friends instilled in her heart. In her honor, Juanita’s family requests any gifts of condolences be given as a donation to Shelter Pet Safety Net (www.shelterpetsafetynet.org).

Juanita’s departure leaves a void, felt deeply by her surviving children, Kelly Munoz and Michael Guy, and further echoed in the laughter of her grandchildren, Erika McDonald, Ryan Alderman, Jarrod Mulholland, Anthony Vasquez, Natella Guy, Brandon Guy, and Joshua Guy. The love Nita cultivated throughout her life extends to her great-grandchildren, Laina McDonald, Ayden McDonald, and Olivia Burke, who will carry her spirit forward in their lives. She is also survived by her dear sister, Faye Zeman, who was more of a second mother to Nita than a sister.  

She is preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Adelia “DeeDee” Alderman, and her parents, AJ and Ruby Dobbs. She is also reunited in spirit with five brothers and two sisters, all of whom she missed dearly.

As we gather our reflections and cherish the memories crafted during her time among us, we hold close the essence of Juanita Ruby Danberger – a soul that touched countless lives through her cooking and laughter. In our remembrance, she lives on.