June Ellen Breese-Mcclellan

June was born October 24, 1944, in San Francisco, California to James and Estill “Tootie” Breese. Raised in Salinas, June attended both Davis and Salinas High Schools before moving to Fresno, California where she attended, and graduated from, Fresno State University with her degree in Psychology. On December 6, 1986, she married Donald McClellan and became a “Bonus Mom” to Don’s daughter.

June spent much of her career with the County of Fresno in various departments including Child Protective Services (CPS), Adult Protective Services (APS) and Eligibility Services. During her time with the County, June’s advocacy for the protection of children led her to a regular position with CPS’s 24-hour response. Despite being promoted to supervisor, June continued her 24-hour outreach on behalf of CPS. She also served as Union President for SEIU Local 535, further holding statewide office.

Following her retirement from the County, June focused her time on non-profit organizations benefiting women and children escaping domestic violence situations, while also holding the position of Director for the California Association for the Physically Handicapped. After a short break, she began working with challenged children as an Assistant. She formally ended her career with the Madera Unified School District, spending her time in the Special Education department. Not one to quit, June continued to be involved as the Advocacy Committee Chair for REFCO (Retired Employees of Fresno County).

Following a lengthy illness, June passed peacefully on August 31, 2022, in Clovis, CA, at the age of 77, her husband and stepdaughter by her side.

June was preceded in death by her mother and father, in 1973 and 2003, respectively. She is survived by her husband, Donald McClellan of Madera, stepdaughter Jennifer L. Reitz and her husband, Scott K. Reitz, of Federal Way, WA, and many extended family members throughout California.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to Valley Teen Ranch or the ASPCA.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Whitehurst Sullivan and Bristol Hospice for their care, guidance and support during this transition. To Gigi and Janine de Leon, the immense love and care you provided will always be a treasured memory and we could not have been more grateful for such beautiful souls to provide care to June when she needed it most.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30am on October 24, 2022, at St. James Cathedral in Fresno (Cedar & Dakota). A Celebration of Life will be held in the reception hall following services.

June’s family invites you to join them in commemorating her life and share fond memories together at the reception. We kindly request that RSVP’s be sent to via text to 425.971.6356 or via email to [email protected], for catering purposes, by October 19th. We are so grateful to have the ability to gather all those dear to June.

St. James Episcopal Cathedral

4147 E. Dakota Ave

Fresno, CA 93726

11:30am