Click here to view funeral program for Tjuana Maria Desper.

Tjuana Maria Desper of Saint Leonard, Maryland, peacefully departed this life on August 11, 2025, at Calvert Memorial Hospital.

She was born on November 30, 1963, to the late Robert Melton Desper and Hellen Mae Hunter. Tjuana was educated in Louisa County and graduated from Louisa County High School, class of 1982. She became a member of Rising Sun Baptist Church at an early age, where her faith was a cornerstone of her life.

She devoted 35 years of service to the Maryland State Government, working with the Office of Public Defenders. Her dedication and leadership as a manager were a testament to her hard work and commitment. She planned to retire on September 30, 2025, just weeks after her passing.

T juana was preceded in her death by her loving parents, Robert Melton Desper and Hellen Mae Hunter.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for her three children: Ashley Desper, William Brooks Jr (Shana), and Bryan Harris. She is also survived by her brothers, Jimmy Desper (Marcel) and Robert Desper (Jacqueline); her sisters, Gracie Coleman (Tony), Dorethea Desper, and Brenda Desper (Joseph); and her devoted partner, Jerome Wallace.

Tjuana was a beloved grandmother to four grandchildren: Amari Gramby, Harper Brooks, Leilani Brooks, and River Harris. She also touched the lives of many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, relatives, and friends who will carry her memory in their hearts.

Her life was one of love, dedication, and strength. Tijuana's spirit will continue to shine through the lives of those she loved so dearly.

To the Desper family, we at  D. D. Watson offer our most sincere sympathy and condolences. Our prayer continues to be that your abiding faith in God will lend to you a measure of comfort that will strengthen and sustain you during your time of sorrow.

It is during such times as these that we draw upon our faith, stand upon our scriptures and rely upon our God. There is no question that in this and through this, God will keep you, comfort you and sustain you. You and your family are forever in our prayers.