Obituary of June M. Peoples

June M. Peoples, 52, of Pierrepont, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, December 1, 2016. A celebration of June's life will be held at Gunnison Memorial Chapel on the St. Lawrence University campus on Sunday, December 11th at 1 p.m. June was born on December 19, 1963 in Clarksville, TN . She graduated from Clarksville High School in 1981, then earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from Memphis State University (University of Memphis). On September 6, 1997 she married her beloved husband Joel Hurd, whom she adored beyond words. June was a member of the Advancement team at St. Lawrence University, but will be remembered most fondly as the Director of Giving and Finance at North Country Public Radio from 2004 until 2016, during which time she was recognized nationally by her peers as Development Professional of the Year. Prior to that June's career history also included enrollment management leadership roles at Paul Smith's College and SUNY Potsdam, and The University of Tennessee, Memphis. June's community involvement included Potsdam Humane Society, Canton-Potsdam Hospital, St. Lawrence Health System, and Reachout of St. Lawrence County. She had a passion for dance and was a Zumba instructor at several locations, including St. Lawrence University. June is survived by her husband Joel; her mother Donna Kieni, Nashville, TN; her father Edward Peoples, Sr.; a brother Edward Peoples, Jr. and his wife, Karen, State College, PA; and a sister Julie Peoples and her husband Walter Scott, Jr., Nashville, TN; as well as several cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was recently predeceased by her brother Joseph Peoples, Houghton Heights, MI. June was beloved by all who knew her. She brought out the best in everyone around her. She was a fearless champion for those who couldn't speak for themselves, and was relentless in her efforts to accomplish what was right and just. June's positive impact on her family, friends and community was profound. This world is a lesser place without her. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial gifts be made to the Potsdam Humane Society, 17 Madrid Avenue, Potsdam, NY 13676.