Barbara June Macklin, Rosemary Park professor emerita of anthropology, passed away Nov. 3, 2021, in New London. “June,” as she was affectionately known, taught at Connecticut College for 40 years from 1957 to 1997.
Born in 1925 in Jay County, Indiana, she received a bachelor’s degree in English and history from Purdue University in 1944. She then taught high school English, history and geography in her hometown of Bryant, Indiana. She received a master’s degree in anthropology from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania.
She was a respected anthropologist, author, educator and lecturer known for her research and writings on Latin American cultures past and present, with a focus on Mexico. During her storied tenure at Connecticut College, she was instrumental in establishing the anthropology department.
A prolific reader, she also loved international travel, riding her horses and sporty cars, and could always be recognized in one of her signature hats.
She is survived by her four nephews: Larry Macklin and Tim Macklin of Colorado, Michael Sweeney of Wisconsin, Steven Sweeney of California and their families. She was predeceased by siblings Mary Marjorie Sweeney of Indiana and Jerry Macklin of Colorado.