Julie Marie Willis

Julie Marie Willis, 53, beloved daughter, sister and friend, passed away on March 3, 2025. Julie was born in San Angelo, Texas on July 24, 1971, to Don David Willis and Arlys Marie (Zum Hofe) Willis. She attended elementary school in Brady, TX, and loved her childhood, friends and family, growing up in Texas. Her father passed away when she was nine and her mother moved the family to her hometown of Glencoe, Minnesota. Julie's favorite Minnesota memories occurred while she attended Mayer Lutheran High School. She was the manager of the baseball team and made many lifelong friends.
Julie enjoyed many diverse career opportunities, working various health care jobs but her passion was always in the culinary field. She loved creating charcuterie boards while employed at a winery. Julie applied for and was accepted into a culinary school in Austin, Texas.
Julie struggled with complications of diabetes after years of being unable to afford insulin and proper medical care. She endured five amputation surgeries and eventually required a wheelchair for mobility. She was unable to work and was recently denied disability benefits after applying a second time.
Julie had a strong faith and love for the Lord. She always reminded those she encountered to "Have a blessed day." She will be remembered for her generosity, passion and pure heart.
A graveside celebration of life will be held Sunday, May 18, 2025, 3:00 p.m. at Live Oak Cemetery in Brady, Texas and officiated by her Pastor, Mike Weaver. Arrangements are made by Leatherwood Memorial Chapels located in Brady. Friends may view and/or sign Julie's online memorial guest book at www.leatherwoodmemorialchapels.com. Memorials in memory of Julie Marie Willis can be made to Mayer Lutheran High School, 306 7th Street NE, Mayer, MN 55360 or online at www.mayerlutheran.org and/or the American Diabetes Association, P. O. 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023 or online at www.diabetes.org.
Julie is survived by her brother John Willis of Waco, Texas, sister of her heart, Linda Orfield of St. Louis Park, MN, uncle Allen and many cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents, Don and Arlys.
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