The peaceful passing of Deanna Livesey on Friday, July 18th, surrounded by the profound love of her family, marks the conclusion of an inspiring life characterized by remarkable resilience and unwavering spirit. Her departure came after a lengthy and courageous battle with Myasthenia Gravis, a challenge she faced with dignity and strength, leaving behind a profound legacy for all who knew her.
Born in Columbia, South Carolina, in November 1946 to Clarence Frank and Willie Mae Hoepner, Deanna exhibited extraordinary athletic talent from a young age. During her formative years at Dreher High School, she not graciously only excelled in academics but also shone brightly across various sports, including basketball, volleyball, and track and field events, showcasing her innate drive and determination.
Deanna’s pursuit of knowledge led her to the University of South Carolina, where she achieved high marks and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business in 1969. It was during this period, at a USO dance in Columbia, that destiny intervened, and she met William “Bill” Dennis Livesey, the man who would become the love of her life and steadfast partner for over five decades.
Their union on September 6, 1969, began a beautiful journey spanning over 53 years, marked by shared dreams and unwavering companionship. The early years of their marriage were spent in the New York area, with Bill embarking on a successful career at MetLife, while Deanna contributed her talents to Look Magazine and later the prestigious John Hay Whitney Foundation. Their growing family, with the birth of daughters Deborah Givens and Christina Livesey, prompted moves to Illinois, New Jersey, and Long Island, as Deanna lovingly dedicated herself to raising their children.
Throughout her rich life, Deanna cultivated a diverse array of passions, reflecting her multifaceted personality. Her deep appreciation for art and culture was evident in her work at the Museum of Modern Art’s Research Library, while her love for the natural world inspired her to earn a Certificate in Master Gardening and contribute her expertise at the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. These pursuits underscored her lifelong commitment to learning and engagement.
Their retirement years brought Deanna and Bill first to Naples, Florida, and then to Rancho Santa Fe, California, before they finally settled in Laguna Niguel to be closer to and help care for their two cherished grandsons. Their exceptional devotion to family was publicly acknowledged in 2017 when they collectively received the esteemed St. Anne’s School Grandparents of the Year Award, a testament to their enduring impact on their grandchildren’s lives.
Deanna’s profound devotion was further exemplified during the five years she selflessly cared for Bill following his disabling stroke. After Bill’s passing in 2023, Deanna bravely confronted her own health challenges, enduring a long hospitalization due to Myasthenia Gravis. Her inspiring recovery allowed her to return home, where in recent months, she found joy in enhancing her garden and cherishing moments with her daughter, Christina, and their loyal dog, Babalu, embodying incredible fortitude.
Deanna’s memory is cherished by her loving sister, Linda Eileen Hulme, her nephew David Riberdy, her niece Samantha Robinson, her brother-in-law Edgar Riberdy, her sister-in-law Mary Weisenreider, and her nephew Stephen Weisenreider. She was preceded in death by her beloved eldest sister, Angela Riberdy. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to their friends and neighbors for their unwavering support during this difficult time, and profound appreciation to her devoted friend and caregiver, Cora, as well as her physician, Dr. Fang, whose kindness and compassion brought immense comfort in Deanna’s final days.
A private ceremony will be held in the coming weeks to honor Deanna’s remarkable journey. In lieu of flowers, her family kindly requests that donations be made to the ASPCA, a charity very close to her heart, ensuring her compassion for animals continues to make a difference, extending her inspirational life stories and leaving a lasting legacy.
