Born: July 6, 1924, In Sacramento CA to Elmer Eaton Jordan and Margret Coleman Galley
Died: February 15, 2024, in Merced CA
Julia was raised in San Francisco, attending the local grammar school then Lowell High School. Beside riding horses in Golden Gate Park her favorite activity was roller skating up and down the hills of the city – jumping the curbs! Mom attended Mills College as a Home Economic major. For her part In World War II Julia volunteered at the USO on Treasure Island where she met the love of her life, Allan “Howard” Larson, a handsome Navy pilot. After the war on June 22, 1946, Howard and Julia married in Julia’s family home surrounded by Dad’s Canadian family.
The new couple moved several times before settling in Merced in 1952.
Julia, never shy, jumped right into community activities donating both her time and money. Mom belonged to the following groups: Merced Historical Society, Friends of the Library,
AAUW, Elks, California Women in Agriculture, the President’s Circle of UC Merced, Friends of Merced Junior College, Merced Arts Council, Playhouse Merced, several bridge groups, at least two book clubs and was an Applegate Zoo volunteer. Through Julia’s love of cooking and entertaining she and Dad participated in a Couples Gourmet Group. As an excellent athlete Julia loved her golf, especially the 99ers and in her younger years was an avid tennis player. Mom and Dad believed in the future of Merced investing their time and finances to make sure it prospered. Julia was loved and admired in all her endeavors.
Julia was predeceased by her parents, two older brothers, and her husband of 70 years. She leaves behind five children: James (Kathy) Larson, Alice (Dan) Leonardo, Linda Larson, John (Peg) Larson, and Don (Kathy) Larson. In addition, Julia left seven grandchildren: Davey, Eric, Phillip, Coleman, Jordan, Caroline, and Andrej plus seven great grandchildren: Nathan, Lylah, Harper, Juliet, Caleb, Alden, and Amelia.
Julia will be missed for her infectious laugh, generous spirit, and loving heart. In leu of flowers the family ask that you make donations in Julia Larson’s name to The Merced Historical Society.
