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Julie Smith Obituary

Anchorage resident Julie Kay Smith, 43, died Nov. 4, 2007, at Providence Alaska Medical Center.
A memorial service and gathering will be from 5 to 9 p.m. Nov. 30 at Campbell Creek Science Center, 6865 Abbott Loop Road.
She was born Aug. 29, 1964, in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.
Julie worked for the special education program in Martinsville, Va., in 1989, then for the Blind Children's Center in Los Angeles from September 1989 until August 1992.
She had worked for the Special Education Services Agency in Anchorage since September 1992.
Julie attended Michigan State University and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in special education. Julie also recieved a Master of Education degree in counseling and guidance and a Master of Education degree in early childhood education at the University of Alaska Anchorage.
Julie had many hobbies and special interests including her nephews, Spencer and Cooper, in Marquette, Mich., knitting, and caring for her dog and cats.
"Julie showed her passion for life through her actions," her family wrote. "The children and families she worked with had the privilege of being served by a talented and highly valued teacher of the visually impaired. Everyone she touched realized it was an honor to have had her as a daughter, sister, aunt, friend, service provider and colleague.
"Her family and friends are grateful that her contributions will be remembered, respected and valued."
Julie is survived by her father, Rodney R. Smith; her mother, Evelyn K. Smith; brother, David (Patti) Smith; and nephews, Spencer and Cooper Smith, all of Marquette.
Julie's cremated remains will be placed at the First United Methodist Church in Marquette.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Anchorage Daily News on Nov. 13, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Julie Smith

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Andrea Story

December 13, 2007

I miss my Eeyore friend.
Julie, you left me with secrets and you know how hard it is for me to keep secrets. I am honored to have them though. Thank you for going to get the Thai Popeye and I am so thankful for sharing an office and a job with you for so many years and for the gifts and support you gave my daughters. I am thankful for your companionship and all the things I never acknowledged. thank you

Kathy Spils

December 12, 2007

Julie started working with our daughter when Jana was less than a year old. Her dedication to our daughters visions needs was amazing. She would accompany us on visits to Dr. Arnold and write meticulous notes during the appointment with perfect penmenship. She came up with the most interesting ideas to stimulate Jana's vision which was delayed in many ways. It was obvious within the first few minutes of meeting Julie that Jana had a new friend. Julie would give Jana the biggest bear hugs and Jana would giggle out loud with delight. Julie cared so much about our whole family. She even made a book for Jana that had pictures of all of us saying hi to her. Jana loved this book so much she chewed it up! Jana is now 4 years old. We hadn't seen Julie for a long time and were looking forward to seeing her at a glass show. We are so thankful that she became a part of Kiela and Kieton's life outside of work. She was so fun and nice and comfortable to be around. We loved having her visit our home. We pray for her family and close friends during this difficult time. We feel so lucky and blessed that she touched our lives. She is an inspiration we will carry with us forever.

Nora Trogdon

December 3, 2007

How many times do we look back and say, "Oh, I wish I had..."? I am Julie's cousin. Oh, I wish I had kept in touch with her as we grew and blossomed and found our way through life. How sad that our lives become too busy for the people who mean so much to us. We should never regret the choices we make, but I do regret losing my relationship with my cousin. I love reading the kind words Julie's friends and co-workers have written about her. She was a very special person...very gentle and kind.
I will never, ever forget Julie's laugh! Even as a child her laugh was full and contagious.
Julie's family, friends and co-workers are in my thoughts. May you find comfort in God's love.

erika robinson

December 1, 2007

Dec 1, 2007

Although I worked off and on as a temp in the same building as julie, I didn't have the privilege nor the opportunity to get to know her in person except in passing; thou I wish I had. I send my condolences to both her friends and family and I know that she's dearly missed.

Chris Robinson

November 28, 2007

It was my personal and professional privilege to work with Julie for over thirteen years. Like others who have offered remembrances here, I am saddened beyond words by her passing. I hope her family now finds solace as they see how their daughter and sister touched so many families and colleagues across our state. She was a quiet superstar, among the very best in her work and a trusted friend and provider. She leaves a legacy of family and child benefit that will be an example for all who follow her.

Mary Swanson

November 27, 2007

Julie and I not only worked together, we became friends! Julie had so many great ideas for students; she was like a breath of spring air. I looked forward to her visits and whenever she came to Kodiak, we would go out to dinner and, of course!, talk about our dogs. I will truly miss Julie! My prayers are with you.
Mary

L. Penny Rosenblum

November 26, 2007

In 2002 I visited Alaska and spent a day with Julie visiting 3 families of visually impaired young children. She was such a strong advocate for the families. In the short time I spent with her I knew she loved her work tremendously. Julie and I visited at a conference a few years later and periodically emailed. Her death is such a shock and she will be missed. My heart goes out to her family and friends.

Brenda Jager

November 26, 2007

Julie was a wonderful person, both as a friend and as a professional. I will miss her.

Nancy Wells

November 26, 2007

We will miss Julie's smile, her laugh, her wit. Her visits were always a bright spot for us and for our families. She was a gifted teacher and I learned so much from her. Please know that Julie made a difference in many lives in Alaska. We share your grief. We will miss her.

Keila Huelle

November 24, 2007

Keiton and I have known Julie for almost three years. We immediately clicked when we met as she offered ideas for Keiton as a baby. In the beginning he didn't see light or dark, but eventually saw things that reflected light...and then things that were green. Julie was very thoughtful and creative in the toys or activities she would provide for Keiton. Having worked as a special education teacher for eight years, I was impressed by her professionalism, concern for my son and me as a parent.

This past summer, Julie became part of "TEAM KEITON" as being one of his primary respite providers. As a parent I never had any reservations about Julie and knew that my son was always in good hands. She diligently followed my long lists of activities and routines for Keiton and always did it with a smile. Julie loved to sing and interact with Keiton...they had a very special bond.

It has been very sad and empty not having Julie around. I greatly apprecciate what she has done for my son and I.

May God comfort your family and know that my thoughts and prayers will continue on.

With great sadness, Keila and Keiton

Dr. Robert Arnold

November 24, 2007

Julie Smith was a tremendous blessing to the low vision children in Alaska. She also expertly conducted more statewide ABCD vision screening clinics than anyone. We will miss her greatly. A brand new, state-of-the-art computer vision screener, dedicated to rural Alaska, is being purchased in her honor.

Lizette Stiehr

November 23, 2007

Julie was such an incredible gift to the early intervention (infant learning) program in Alaska. I was honored to work with Julie both as a state Technical Assistant and as an ILP teacher. Julie and I worked closely when she served as the president of the state wide infant learning association (AILPA) for two years. I was also the fortunate in getting to review her VISIT program and hear the amazing things families said about her and how much they appreciated and honored her hard work. Then I had the great good fortune of working with her with families. She was so gentle and deeply knowledgeable. Children loved her, as did the professionals lucky enough to benefit from working with her. She will be sorely missed. My heart is with her family in this time of painful transition. Sincerely, Lizette Stiehr

Patty Olmstead

November 20, 2007

May Julie's friends and family find peace and comfort over time when remembering how she touched so many people in so many caring ways. It was a priviledge to know her and have the opportunity to learn from her in our past travels throughout Alaska.Even though in recent years our paths went in different directions, I still feel her guidance in working with children.THANK YOU JULIE.You will be greatly missed.

Cindy Amback

November 20, 2007

Please know that Julie will be greatly missed! She was a wonderful Ex Officio Trustee for the Federal Quota Program and provided services for many children because of her involvement. She was a pleasure to work with and very dedicated. Thank you for sharing your precious daughter with the world.

Cindy Amback
American Printing House for the Blind

Mary Pomeroy

November 20, 2007

Peace and light to Julie's family during this time of loss. Julie has touched many hearts so her spirit will be kept alive. With warm thoughts to her family, Mary

Tamara Ferris

November 19, 2007

We send our love to Julie's Family. She is Deeply missed by all who knew her

Cynthia Parkin

November 17, 2007

Please accept my deepest condolances during this difficult time and transition. I knew and worked with Julie only over the last four years and appreciate so much that we became close. We shared time knitting together as well as the work we both did. She was a pleasure to talk with and I so appreciated her opinion and knowledge.
I am happy to report Ollie moved to Valdez with ease. He is a happy, goofy, lovable, boy who is now living on the shore of Prince William Sound with a family who is so thrilled to have him in their lives now.
I am hoping to attend Julie's memorial service and look forward to meeting you then.

Lezlie Shull

November 16, 2007

My deepest sympathy is expressed to Julie's family and friends. I pray for God to comfort each of you.

Margaret Kavanaugh

November 14, 2007

I am a special education preschool teacher in Kodiak Alaska. Although I never had the opportunity to work closely with Julie. I will always remember the smile on her face each and every time as I would pass her in the hallway.

Crystal Wheeler

November 14, 2007

I am a special education teacher in Kodiak Alaska. I only knew Julie for a short time but feel extremely honored to have had the chance to work with her. She will be missed a great deal!

HeatherAmy Scott

November 13, 2007

I feel very blessed to have known Julie, she was a great friend and wonderful person.
Namaste

Rebecca Chandler

November 13, 2007

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007

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