Diane B Jergins

Diane Blanche "Dee" Jergins
1932 - 2013

After an extended illness, Diane Blanche "Dee" Jergins passed away quietly at her home in Santa Fe on Monday, January 27, 2013. She was known for her gentle strength and her loving, generous heart.

Dee Jergins was born on March 22, 1932 in Los Angeles, California, where she grew up. She graduated from Stanford University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1954. She moved to Santa Fe in 1978 where she established her home and businesses.

Ms. Jergins spearheaded the evolution of the Guadalupe Street Business District when she opened her store, Cookworks, in 1981. She went on to open three more stores in the area leaving an indelible mark on the what would become one of the city's most thriving business communities.

Ms. Jergins believed strongly in giving back to her community and supported many Santa Fe- based charitable organizations throughout her life including The Santa Fe Opera, The Lensig Theater for the Performing Arts, AIDS Foundation of New Mexico, The New Mexico Museum of Art, The Wheelwright Museum, The Boys and Girls Club of New Mexico, The Chamber Music Festival of Santa Fe, and many others.

Ms. Jergins was preceded in death by her daughter, Daphne Dreyer, of Palm Springs, California, and her life-partner of 35 years, Betty Gardner- Meyers, of Santa Fe. Ms. Jergins is survived by her best friend of 32 years and her husband of 2 1/2 years, Wade Wilson of Houston and Santa Fe.

Ms. Jergins' burial was held privately with a small graveside service in keeping with her wishes. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Diane B. "Dee" Jergins to the Santa Fe Opera.