Julie Connell

Julie Nuyen Connell, 59, of Sylva, North Carolina, passed away on December 15, 2025, surrounded by love.

She was born on November 30, 1966, in Aurora, Illinois. Julie spent the majority of her life in Charlotte, North Carolina area, and later in western North Carolina, where she cherished her solitude and the beauty of the mountains.

Julie was known for her light spirit and love of life. She found happiness both in the mountains and at the beach, enjoyed music and laughter, and deeply valued time spent with those she loved. Her warmth, humor, and presence left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She was a devoted mother to her children and a second mother to many of their friends while they were growing up. Julie found immense joy in becoming a “Gigi” and spending time with her two beloved granddaughters. Throughout her life, Julie faced significant physical challenges with quiet strength and resilience, never allowing them to diminish her love of life or her devotion to those she cared for.

She is survived by her daughter, Samantha Connell, and her husband, Beat Bircher; her son, Ryan Connell, and his partner, Eva Messer; her former husband and longtime friend, Niall Connell; her brother, John Nuyen; her stepmother, Barbara Clark Nuyen; and her niece, Alice Nicole Nuyen. She also leaves behind her cherished granddaughters, Adelynn Jane Connell and Bonnie Ann Marie Connell.

She was preceded in death by her son, Andrew Baron Connell; her mother, Judith Siewert Nuyen; and her father, Jeffery Raymond Nuyen.

A Celebration of Life will be held on December 27, 2025, from 12:00 to 3:00 pm at Laurel Ridge Country Club in Waynesville, North Carolina. This will be an informal gathering with open conversation, shared memories, and a brief time for reflection.

The family is grateful for the love, support, and kindness shown during this time.