In loving memory of
Junetta "June" Rutherford
June 30, 1944 - August 4, 2026
June’s family invites you to celebrate her memory by supporting United Through Reading and helping military families stay connected through the power of shared storytime.
June lived a life defined by a strong work ethic, devotion to her family, and a lifelong love of reading. Her life of civilian service included 35 years with the Department of the Navy, where she dedicated much of her career to supporting the military community. Above all, June cherished her family.
She was a devoted mother to her three daughters, Lisa, Patricia, and Melinda, and a loving grandmother and great-grandmother. She had a special place in her heart for children and was a voracious reader herself, finding great joy in books throughout her life. For her family, United Through Reading brings together so much of what mattered to June. Connecting her life of service, her love for children and family, and the joy she found in reading.
In her memory, family and friends are invited to make a gift to United Through Reading. Your generosity will help military families stay connected through shared storytime, giving children the comfort of a familiar face and voice even when military service keeps their families apart. Thank you for helping celebrate June’s life and carry forward the things she loved in a way that will touch military families for years to come.
2026 Impact
So far this year, 172,536 military family members have experienced greater connection through United Through Reading, across the United States and on military installations around the world.
34,900 books have been placed in the hands of military children, giving families stories they can read, share, and return to again and again.
Through 2,096 recorded storytimes, military children can see a familiar face, hear a familiar voice, and share a story with someone they love, even when military service keeps them apart.
12,276 literacy resources have helped families make reading a meaningful part of everyday life while supporting children's literacy and learning.
Share in June’s Memory
Help us celebrate June’s life by sharing this page with family and friends. Each gift made in her memory honors her legacy of service, her love of children, and her lifelong love of reading while helping military families stay connected through the power of storytime. Whether you make a gift or simply share June’s story, thank you for helping carry forward something that meant so much to her and her family.