Julie Ellen James

Julie was born in Sacramento, California on May 7, 1958 to Gale and Elaine Brown, the first of five children. She was born only minutes before her twin sister, Gayle, as she would lovingly call her “womb mate”. She cherished her brothers, Steven and Dennis, and adored her little sister Charlene.

While in high school, she met the love of her life, and fell in love with the handsome and charming, Jerry James, who survives her. They eventually married on July 1, 1978 and shared a long, happy marriage rooted by their deep love and respect for each other.

Julie’s genuine love for people impacted everyone she met, for the better. Julie lived life on her terms—full of love, compassion, and service. Julie truly loved life and she also loved a good meal, a good book, a good vacation, and a good party. Julie was not only an amazing mother, but also was a devoted grandmother, always present. She was most proud of her children and grandchildren. Her son, Jerry III, who passed away too early, she was heartbroken to have outlived him.

Survived by her two daughters, Rachel, and Debbie and her five grandchildren: Faith, Tatum, Elijah, Jacob, and Jaden. She cherished her family and played an integral role in the lives of those close to her. Always confident and beautiful, she led by example and was the perfect model for unconditional love, humor, and inner strength. She will be profoundly missed by many. She was sweet and funny, kind and feisty, and held an opinion on everything from politics to doctoring to fashion to all matters of child-rearing. Julie gave so much and asked for little in return. She brought a smile and sparkle into the lives of all who knew her, and we will miss her forever.

A memorial service celebrating Julie’s life will be held on Thursday, January 21, 2021 at 1PM at West Resthaven Funeral Home, 6450 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale.