June Frances Rector Queen

June Frances Rector Queen, peacefully passed away on March 11, 2026, at the Care Partners Solace Center in Asheville. Born February 1, 1944, in Jacksonville, Florida, June touched the lives of many through her compassionate spirit and devoted service.

June graduated nursing school from Grady Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in Atlanta and began her professional journey as a nurse at St. Vincent’s hospital in Jacksonville. After moving to North Carolina she worked under the guidance of Dr. Ellis at Marion General Hospital. Her dedication and passion for healthcare propelled her career forward, leading her to serve as the Director of Services for McDowell, Polk, and Rutherford Counties. Throughout her career, she exemplified a commitment to helping others, leaving an enduring impact on those she cared for and worked alongside.

June met the love of her life on the beaches of Jacksonville while he was serving at Naval Station Mayport. June and Jim were married for 53 years before his passing. June was also a faithful member of Hankins Baptist Church for over 50 years and valued the fellowship of her church. A beloved figure to her family, June was affectionately known as Mimi. She created countless beautiful memories not only with her grandchildren, Cooper and Stella, but also with her nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of family friends. She was a gracious host who took great joy in welcoming family and friends to her pool, surrounded by the beauty of her carefully tended gardens and flowers. Her kindness, nurturing nature and quiet strength made her a source of comfort and joy for all who knew her. She was, in every sense, a true lady.

In addition to her professional and familial roles, she was an avid traveler. June held a deep-seated love for trains which was instilled from a young age by her father who was Yard Master at Jacksonville Terminal. Her adventurous spirit led her to visit all 50 states and travel the full span of Amtrak rail across North America. June’s travels abroad with her daughters, nieces, nephew, and sister reflected her insatiable curiosity and love of exploration.

She is survived by her daughters, Katherine Anne (Queen) Dribbon (David) and Chrissy (Queen) Peek; her sister, Helyn Birge (John); her brother, Billy Rector (Pam); and her cherished grandchildren, Cooper Reed Jackson and Stella June Peek. June is preceded in death by her husband, James Earl Queen, and her parents, Roland William Rector and Mary Catherine Barnhardt Rector.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 4:00 PM at the Marion Train Depot, located at 45 Depot St, Marion, NC 28752. Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of a remarkable woman whose legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege to know her.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are invited to donate to a nonprofit hospice of their choice.