June was born at home in June of 1937 in Turlock, CA. She grew up in Crows Landing, CA, attending Mountain View Grammar School, a small country school. She graduated from Turlock High School in 1955. While in high school, she played the violin in both the Turlock High Orchestra and Stanislaus Country Orchestra. She met her husband of 69 years George Ellington while they were both in high school. They married in February of 1956 in Turlock, CA then moved to Tracy, CA for George’s work.

After moving to Tracy, June worked as a Secretary for the H.J. Heinz Co. Factory Manager. After her children were in school full time, she returned to school and earned an Associate of Science degree in Nursing from San Joaquin Delta College in 1973. She worked as a registered nurse the rest of her career.

While in high school, she was an active member of the Young Democrats Club, and throughout her adult life, she remained involved in the Democratic Party. She also volunteered with the PTA, and as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader. She was instrumental in establishing the McKinley School Library in the late 1960’s. While volunteering, she was presented with a special PTA award. June later worked as a volunteer at the Tracy Senior Center, including being elected to serve as secretary. She enjoyed gardening, calling it her “Dirt Therapy,” and delivered cut flowers from her garden while visiting residents of local convalescent hospitals, and shut-ins at their homes.

June is survived by her husband, George Ellington; daughter, Susan Ellington of Tracy, CA; and son, Mike Ellington (Denise) of La Grange, CA. She was preceded in death by her parents, Connie and Dewey Mead; sister, Jeannie Mead; and brothers, George Mead and Jerry Mead.

There will be no service at June’s request. Remembrances may be made to Tracy Interfaith Ministries, or your local Chapter of the Future Farmers of America.