SEXSON, Mildred (Peach)

The Wickenburg Sun, Wickenburg, Arizona Wednesday, July 24, 2013 Mildred ‘Peach’ Sexson “Peach” (Mildred Curnow Sexson) passed away June 26 after 93 wonderful years, most of which she enjoyed in Arizona. Born Mildred LeVoy in Evanston, Ill., she later studied journalism and graduated from Northwestern University. Her intelligence and enthusiastic personality opened the door for her first job -- doing research for the “Quiz Kid” radio show, and later “The $64,000 Question.” Friends convinced her to come out to Arizona and explore the cowboy life. Peach worked at the Rail X Ranch in Patagonia before coming to the Flying V Ranch (now Lowe’s Ventana Canyon) in Tucson. She moved to Camelback Inn, a world-renowned ranch resort in Phoenix, and there met photographer and soon-to-be-friend Rowena Foster. There was never a dull moment in their public relations work related to the many celebrity and dignitary visitors. When Camelback closed for the summer, Peach and Rowena were invited to continue their public relations work at The Bishop’s Lodge in Santa Fe, N.M. It was there that Peach met Jack Curnow, chemical engineer with Shell Oil, and soon thereafter the two were married in the chapel at The Bishop’s Lodge. Peach and Jack lived in northern California for a while but missed the desert life and returned to Arizona, settling in Wickenburg. Peach began doing publicity work at Rancho de Los Caballeros, drawing guests to the wonders of desert life. At home, Peach was involved in many ventures, including sheltering countless stray cats, dogs, and birds. She created lovely stained glass designs and did beautiful stitchery. Fond memories abound of Peach and Jack playing banjo together with their standard poodles afoot. After Jack’s death in 1979, Peach stayed in Wickenburg, continued her creative ventures, and volunteered for local organizations. She later married Jack Sexson and remained with him until his death. Peach was an avid Scrabble player and enjoyed working crossword puzzles and reading, especially Louis L’Amour cowboy books. She was a gracious hostess and loved having friends and family come visit and stay in her pool house. She never ceased to enjoy the Southwest and Rancho de Los Caballeros. Peach lived at home in Wickenburg, where she maintained many long and meaningful friendships, until just prior to her death. Peach is survived by her cousin Jackie Newheath, of Clayton, N.M.; Allison Sexson of Brush Prairie, Wash.; “The Three Bears” Don, Tom, and Robert Mauer; long-time friend Rowena Foster; Goddaughters Suzy Bjerke and Pinkney Foster; and many more loving friends. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. ~~~~~~~~ The Wickenburg Sun, Wickenburg, Arizona Wednesday, November 27, 2013 Services for Peach Sexson (July 21, 1919 - June 26, 2013) will be held with a memorial tea, given by Suzy Bjerke from 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesday (Dec. 3) at her home located at Rancho de los Caballeros. Friends are encouraged to visit and share stories of Peach. Those planning to attend are asked to call Hillary Burkett at 684-4892 no later than Sunday (Dec. 1).