Juanita June Dempsey of Apache Junction, Arizona slipped the bonds of earth on the afternoon of Saturday, June 25, 2022. She is survived by her partner of 32 years, Jeanne Botwright; also surviving are nieces Patti and Shelly; and nephews Scott(Evelyn) and Patrick(Janet), their children Jenny(Joe), Joshua, Lauren, and Cameron Dempsey. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Majorie Dempsey.
Juanita was born in St. Louis, Missouri on June 19, 1929 to William and Juanita Dempsey; both deceased. She was also predeceased by her brother William S. Dempsey Jr. She graduated from Central High School in 1947, and soon after graduated with a bachelor's degree from Harris Teachers College in St.Louis. Juanita also graduated from the University of Missouri with a master's degree in Science.
Juanita went to work for the Department of Parks and Recreation in the city of St. Louis where she remained for 42 years. She left briefly to serve in the United States Marine Corps reserve for 9 years.
While working in recreation, she was affectionately known and addressed by the thousands of youth she interacted with as "Miss June". An avid RV fan, Juanita drove a 40 ft. Class A all over the United States towing a van. She visited every state in continental U.S. Juanita was also very active in the Marine Corps Association, the Women Marines Association, the Women's Memorial, DAR and several other groups. She was sidelined by lung cancer which curtailed her many activities.
June was laid to rest at San Joaquin National Cemetery in Santa Nella, Ca. alongside her brother. She completed her bucket list by reaching the age of 93 six days prior to her passing and passing away at home, her last wish. She was given honors by her friends; the U.S. Marine flag was flown at half staff, her picture was displayed and the streets lined with residents rendering the salute as her van passed by, all the while the Marine Corps Hymn was playing as she passed through the gate for her final trip. Semper Fi!
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mariposagardens.com for the Dempsey family.
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