ALAMOGORDO, N.M.–Jaunita Whiteside, the president/CEO of Otero FCU, has died.
Ms. Whiteside was 63 and died following a lengthy battle with breast cancer.
Ms. Whiteside spent more than 37 years with Otero FCU, and was named president/CEO in 2002. During her career she was active in numerous organizations, including the Credit Union Association of New Mexico and several of its task forces, as well as the New Mexico Credit Union Education Foundation board of directors.
"The credit union was her second home, and we were all her second family, members and staff alike,” said SVP-Operations Regina Colbert in a statement. “It was through her mentorship and guidance I have grown within the credit union. Juanita put up a great fight against her cancer, working many days after chemo and radiation treatments. She was determined to be here every day over the years and even the past few months. Juanita was a fighter and courageous individual, one of the best bosses I ever had. I have not only lost a great boss, leader, mentor and coach, but I have lost a very dear friend."
The $284-million Otero will close its offices on August 21 so that members and employees may attend funeral services.