Activist and community organizer June Degnan has died from complications related to recent brain surgery. She was 81.
Degnan, who was born and raised in Unalakleet, had made Southeast Alaska her home for the past several years after a wide-ranging career that took her from Paris to southern Florida and Anchorage.
In the past few years, she became known for her work as chairwoman of the Haven House board of directors. With Degnan’s support, Haven House overcame neighborhood reluctance to become established as a transitional home for women leaving prison or substance abuse treatment.
Degnan survived breast cancer but recently was diagnosed with brain cancer. She underwent surgery on May 31 in Seattle and appeared to be recovering before her death.
If things don’t turn out well, “just tell everybody to do their best. They’re good people,” Degnan said before her surgery.
A memorial service has been scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday at Evergreen Memorial Chapel in Anchorage.
• Contact reporter James Brooks at jbrooks@juneauempire.com or 523-2258.
