Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Julie O''Leary Obituary
Sept. 13th, 1951 - Aug. 9th, 2014
On the 9th of August, 2014, we lost our treasured Julie O'Leary. She passed away peacefully at 9:30 am, just as breakfast preparation was completed. In true Julie fashion, she chose to go once she knew everyone would be fed.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Shirley Horn. She is survived by her loving husband Tim, her children Casey and Pat and their spouses, her sister Marianne Boesiger, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
So many have been touched by Julie's selflessness and steadfast encouragement. From the students she taught in Boise's Public Schools and North End Swimming Lessons to family and friends old and new, when in Julie's presence all felt welcome, cared for, safe, and appreciated.
In her final weeks, as she came to terms with her sudden illness, the message she wished to impart was to heal family rifts. She wanted everyone she knew to hug fiercely, laugh heartily, truly love unconditionally and forgive each other for perceived wrongdoings as was her way throughout her entire life. The generosity, good humor, and grace with which she lived life followed her through her death, and even in her final days she served as a true mentor for how to live and love deliciously. To the end she appreciated the small joys of family and friends, said "Thank You" for kindnesses given and "I love you" often to those around her.
Memorial services for Julie will be held in Boise on Friday, Aug. 22nd at 2 pm at the Agriculture Pavilion in Julia Davis Park and in Cascade on Sunday, Aug. 24th at 2 pm at the American Legion Hall. Food for both services will be potluck, and in honor of Julie we ask that you bring ten times more food than anyone could possibly eat, along with containers to take home leftovers. The family would also love copies of any great photos you have of Julie that you would like us to have. We will provide cork boards for posting them. In lieu of flowers, Julie asked that you use the money to share a special meal with your family and raise a glass in her honor.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Julie O''Leary
Pat O'Leary
September 19, 2014
It was a blessing to have been brought into this world by such a wonderful person. I will truly miss my mother. I know that my family will do everything in our power to keep her memory alive. We love you and will miss you! Thanks for sharing your wisdom and love with me. Love ya Ma!
Jill Loveless
September 3, 2014
I was privileged to have Mrs. O'Leary as my 4th grade teacher and will never forget her. By far one of my all time favorite teachers as she had this special light that shined and was so well respected. I will always remember the Oregon trail game and how she made it so fun and interactive. She had this way of making everything Such a blast while demanding the respect of her students and that's what made her such an amazing person and teacher. I know she has left her mark on everyone she has met and I feel blessed to have shared some great memories with her. My heart goes out to your family but find comfort in knowing she is watching over us all...
August 22, 2014
My condolences to Julie's family-I hope you can feel how deeply she touched so many as you read through these messages.
I was privileged to work with Julie for several years at Cynthia Mann. We shared students who struggled and she was always their advocate and mentor. The students loved and respected her even when she demanded that they demonstrate their best selves. I learned much from Julie about not only teaching but about life-for those were inseparable. Julie always was just who she was-honest, caring, accepting and expecting the best in all. Julie, you will be dearly missed, but your presence will remain with those whose lives you touched.
Paula Davis
Nikol Johnson
August 21, 2014
I student taught under Julie, and she taught me how to laugh each day and to embrace life. She taught me so much about being an educator and to never take anything too seriously, and to just have fun. I am blessed to have known her, and I know she touched so many lives both young and old. Truly a remarkable person.
Travis & Stacey Romeo
August 20, 2014
We feel lucky to have been able to meet Julie at Pat and Kelsey's wedding - what a fantastic woman. The look on her face when the bagpipes began playing was priceless, she just loved it! Sending our love and condolences your way, O'Leary family.
RC Hedrick
August 19, 2014
Your mama opened her home and her heart to any one. Always ready with a hug, always laughing. I loved the many St. Patty's day feast of Corn beef, cabbages and Guinness! It didn't matter if I hadn't seen her in months, it was always "Willey, how in the hell are yah". I miss her, my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Cindy Sundvik
August 19, 2014
Oh,Julie was a mentor to teachers, a gift to students, and one heck of a good friend. She was so strong, smart, and fun. The world is so much better because she was here. She will be missed. I will always remember the pure joy in her voice as she spoke of her husband and children. Peace and love to her family.
Anne Desaulniers
August 19, 2014
We are saddened to hear of the loss of this incredible woman. My favorite memory of Julie happened at Sunset Park in Boise. I was slowly trudging along the path, feeling very sorry for myself. It was July, incredibly hot, I was pregnant and past my due date, and I was having a colossal pity party. Walking toward me was Julie. We greeted each other and I told her my sob story. She smiled her wonderful smile and offered condolences. Julie was pregnant as well, and it turned out she was even more past her due date than I was. I was so comforted to know that she was handling it all with more humor than I had been, and it gave me strength to hang in there. Every conversation I had with Julie made me a better person. She was so grounded with love and compassion, and I learned important lessons from her. She will never be forgotten. Many hugs to Tim, Pat and Casey.
Mike Denney
August 18, 2014
I saw an old Rambler station wagon today and I thought of Ms. Horn. I seem to recall that she drove one and I rode in it once-upon-a-time. Other memories I have are of her teaching me about the number 7 and how important it was to respect that "stop" sign on the restroom door in the kindergarten classroom at Owyhee Elementary school. I've never forgotten you Ms. Horn, and I never will.
August 18, 2014
I will never forget my kindergarten teacher! Such an influence on my life and I always enjoyed running into her and catching up through the years.
Marian & Dean Chambers
August 17, 2014
I will miss my buddy so much. She always thought of everyone else before herself. Still struggling with her loss. Love to the family and everyone she touched with her magical life and cooking skills. MARIAN & Dean
Corey Lane
August 17, 2014
I have been to a couple of the family's St. Patrick's Day celebrations, and I know the entire family had a deep love to all whom attended. To be a part of those memories has been nothing short of amazing! Not all has been lost, she has left many people with many memories, that will never be forgotten. For that, no one can ever show enough appreciation. To all of the family who is still here with us, not all is lost. You are model family, that everyone should have the pleasure of knowing!
-Corey
Mary H.
August 17, 2014
Dear Julie's family, Sending my deepest condolences for a life lived to the max with such joy, love, and enthusiasm. I did not know Julie well but felt such a wonderful bond with her and always felt appreciated by her while working @ Collister Elem. some years ago. Julie was always such a ray of sunshine and always had a twinkling glint in her eye. Such a great teacher and I deeply feel her students received her all and felt encouraged in her presence. Julie, cheers to you dear lady as I raise my glass to you in honor and heartfelt appreciation.
Susie (Bell) Kemp
August 17, 2014
I was lucky to have Mrs. O'Leary twice at Owyhee. Kindergarten and 3rd grade. I remember her loud whistle, the birthday spankings and Playing Heads Up Seven Up. She was a special lady and will surely be missed. Rest in Peace Mrs. O.
Janice Trull
August 17, 2014
I enjoyed teaching with Julie at Mountain View School. She is someone who definitely made this world a better place.
August 15, 2014
We were so sorry to hear about Julie. It was a real shock.
She was a great lady. All the years we know her she always had a smile on her face and always had something positive to say about people.
When she came to Cynthia Mann she was great with the kids and they really liked her.
She will be greatly missed but never forgotten by anyone who know her.
Mary,Joyce and Cathy Rausch
Kim
August 15, 2014
I had Mrs. O'Leary (Miss Horn) as a kindergarten teacher in 76. I remember we all thought it was so cool when she would place her fingers in her mouth and whistled extremely loud. I wanted to be able to do that so bad. When I was an adult her path somehow cross with my mothers and when my mother passed away in 1999 Mrs. O'Leary was at her funeral. She was a very loving person. I feel extremely blessed to have had her in my life.
catie eyer
August 15, 2014
our family has been members of earthly delights csa {run by julie's daughter, casey} for many years. one fall, we were members of casey & julie's soup and bread csa. oh, those warm loaves of fresh bread alongside nourishing soup... that is a sweet legacy.
her message of healing family rifts is one i can work on.
raising a glass in her honor...
Helen
August 15, 2014
Even though Mrs.O'Leary and I did not know each other, I thank her, and am sorry for her family's loss; I am sure I will "see" her many times in the future, through my friendship with Casey.
Jeannette (Tiny) Fore (Miller)
August 15, 2014
Ms. Horn, as I first knew her, was an amazing lady. I basically grew up with Julie as an Aunt figure. I still remember when she and Tim got married. I baby sat for them and we had many fun swimming trips at her Nonna's pool.
She gave a lot of kids their first love of school and blessed many children in the Boise School District.
The loss of an amazing Educator, wife, mother and friend. May you rest in peace Julie.
Christy and Larry Babcock
August 15, 2014
Warm hugs and thoughts of love and support to Julie's family from the Babcock family. She was a special lady who I have no doubt is now laughing in heaven with her friend and fellow Irishwoman Clydeene.
Cheryl U. (formerly A)
August 15, 2014
I haven't seen Mrs. O'Leary since grade school at Owyhee Elementary (25 years ago), but I've thought about her so many times! We were lucky enough to have her in kindergarten and then again in 3rd grade. The memory that stands out the most in all of grade school was that we all got birthday "spankings" in kindergarten. We giggled uncontrollably as she put us over her lap and the class chanted our age while she "spanked" us and our chosen friend used a tissue to "catch our tears". She made us feel so special.
Tom Harper
August 15, 2014
Julie and her family were the best next door neighbors one could have. I have many happy memories growing up on 23rd street that involve Julie, Marianne, Tony and Shirley. They were always kind to me, even when I did the sort of pranks that young boys can be capable of. Summer dance parties on the patio, swimming, the wonderful play house Julie's grandfather made. Many wonderful memories. I am sorry to hear of her passing and send out all my sympathy to the family. Julie gave me a spelling test (how do you spell my name?) just after they moved in. I failed, but she helped me with it. I am not surprised she was a great teacher.
August 15, 2014
We shared many great times with Julie while we all were working at Owyhee School. Our children were also blessed to have her as their Kindergarten teacher. She was a red headed wonder! Everyone whose path she crossed was fortunate to have met her. Sincerely, Betsy and Judee
Laurie Patterson Fitch
August 14, 2014
What a joy to see Julie again after many years gone by. Still the joyous and happy soul she always was. You lit up my heart every time I saw you. Thank you Jesus for blessing so many lives with Julie. You received a special spirit August 9th.
Lani Daniels
August 14, 2014
I was very heart broken when I heard the news. Julie was one of the main reasons I became a teacher. I wanted to give back to children what she gave to me, unconditional support, and love. My favorite memory of her is when I was In the third grade. I finally earned a 100% on my spelling test, (after an entire year, and a lot of practice) she took me to lunch to celebrate. She was an amazing person.
Diane Gustafson
August 14, 2014
I feel honored to have know Julie for so many years! She was my good friend, a second mom to my kids, a mentor, a partner in every adventure we went on through the wonderful years of our friendship.
sandee rhodenbaugh
August 14, 2014
We have been so blessed to have Julie as a part of our lives for over the past thirty-five years. I have never laughed harder, sang louder, and at the end cried harder than when with Jules! She taught by example and loved with her whole being. The world is a better place for her being in it and it is our job to share what we have learned. We will miss you forever and always dear friend.
Love, John and Sandee
Amy G
August 14, 2014
Ms. Horn as I knew her, was my kindergarten teacher at Owyhee Elementary in 1977. I have never forgotten her. I remember her very long hair the most. I too remember my kindergarten home visit with her. My thoughts are with the family and friends.
Casey O'Leary
August 14, 2014
I'm finding so much joy in reading all these accounts of parts of Mom's life I didn't know about. Please keep sharing!
Casey
Susan Sanders-Jenkins
August 14, 2014
OMG...no one could create a bigger celebration by just entering the room than Julie. Her insightful nature, her genuine caring, and her love of life made her unforgettable. I was blessed to have known Julie since childhood as well as being teaching partners over the years. I will miss her.
Larry and I send our heartfelt sympathy to you. May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. With love...
Carrie K.
August 14, 2014
Julie was one of my most inspirational teachers. She helped me discover I was capable of more than I ever thought possible, and I know she did the same for many others. Her memory will be cherished.
Julia Carroll
August 14, 2014
My favorite memory of Julie was years ago when she was hugely pregnant, all that bright read hair, and did the funniest chicken dance. Always enjoyed her sunny personality. Prayers for those who loved her.
August 14, 2014
Our hearts are broken, but we are so thankful to have had Julie in our lives and family! Her happy, outgoing personality will be missed by so many. Thank u Miss Julie for the gift of Patrick to our family Love to all,Karl and Sally Kleinkopf
Jeanne Gustaves
August 14, 2014
She loved so many unconditionally.. She always made me feel so specia l and like I was the most important person in the room. We can all learn so much from her as how to treat people we are suppose to love. I will miss her so very much and wish the best for Tim and the family? Just know you are loved and we are here for you no matter what or when. Love you all so much Jeanne
August 14, 2014
Our hearts are broken but we are so thankful to have had Julie in our lives and family! Her laugh and happy outgoing personality will be so so missed. To Miss Julie: Thank u for the gift of Patrick to our family! Love, Karl and Sally Kleinkopf(Kelsey's parents)
August 14, 2014
To all of Julie's family
My heart and prayers go out to you in this difficult time. May you find peace and comfort in all the beautiful memories you shared with Julie and especially at "her mountain" She so loved the serenity and the beauty of her home in Cascade. I can imagine she loved every place she was ever at.
I don't need to tell you but you were so loved and respected by your mother-in-law. How blessed both of you were to have had that relationship. The smiles and laughter you shared with us
when you visited at our TOPS meetings.
Such a delight. The wonderful spread you put on for those of us who stopped at hour lovely home. Not such a thing as a snack at Julie's, it was a wonderful home cooked meal and such a
gracious hostess who made us feel so welcome. May you rest in peace, lovely lady. You will be missed
Jill Hanford
August 14, 2014
I was lucky enough to teach one year with Julie early in my teaching career. What a great example of an excellent teacher and person she was. Even though my time with her was short, her love of life was contagious. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. She will be missed by many!
D'on Waltermire
August 14, 2014
Oh darling Jewels, this world has lost a precious soul. You were a sister I never had. The many experiences wearing bat hats, canoeing across Payette lake singing raunchy songs. Great memories! Love you Tim, Patrick, Casey and all her friends that were most like family.
Cuz, Dee
Sean Eason
August 14, 2014
You touched the hearts of so many. The day you pulled up on your motorcycle for my kindergarten home visit was pretty cool. God bless.
Karin Harris-O'Leary
August 13, 2014
Dear Aunt Julie,
I will always remember your jolly upbeat personality and kindness. Your big hugs and love will always be in my heart. The world won't be the same without you in it. I miss you, and wish that we could have been able to spend more time together over the last many years. Prayers to Casey and Patrick and uncle Tim, and all the family and friends that you have impacted in life.
I love you!
Your niece Karin
Showing 1 - 42 of 42 results
Make a Donation
in Julie O''Leary's name
Memorial Events
for Julie O''Leary
How to support Julie's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Julie O''Leary's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
