Julia Ann Short

Julia Ann Short, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on February 28, 2025, at the age of 66. Born on November 28, 1958, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Julia dedicated much of her life to both her family and her career as an educator, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and creativity.

Julia’s teaching career spanned many years, during which she primarily served as a 3rd grade teacher. Her journey as an educator began at a private school where her passion for teaching blossomed, inspiring her to pursue a teaching degree. After graduating, Julia became an integral part of the Center Point and Hot Springs School Districts, where her love for children shone through. She prided herself on her ability to connect with her students, often finding many different ways to explain a concept in order to ensure that every child grasped the material. Her dedication to education was evident as she consistently went above and beyond, nurturing the minds and spirits of countless young learners.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Julia was an amazing mother and grandmother. Her family meant the world to her, and she especially cherished the time she spent with her grandsons, Hudson Ellis Dobbs and Jensen George. She created a warm and loving home, always welcoming others in with open arms, whether it was the youth group from her church or anyone needing support. Her beautiful giving heart knew no bounds as she extended kindness to both people and animals alike.

A woman of many talents, Julia was extremely creative and had a knack for bringing ideas to life. She was a master seamstress, and her love of cooking was well known; friends and family oftentimes delighted in her famous banana nut bread. Julia enjoyed reading, cooking, and baking, hobbies that brought her joy and allowed her to share warmth and love with those around her. Julia loved music of all genres and was gifted with a beautiful singing voice. In quiet moments, she would watch old Western movies-especially those starring her favorite actor, John Wayne.

Julia is survived by her daughters, Anna Dobbs and husband Nicholas of Benton, Arkansas, and Laura Short of Hot Springs, Arkansas; her grandsons, Hudson Ellis Dobbs and Jensen George; her sister, Camelia Ellis Carpenter and husband Owen; her nephew, Tyler Carpenter (Jodie); her niece, Kayla Ashley (Michael); grand-nephews, Briar Carpenter, Beau Ashley, and Ben Ashley; and many family members and friends who love Julia and will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Ricky Short, her parents, James Delbert and Helen R. (Young) Ellis, and her grandparents, Jessie "Ray" and Alma Young.

A visitation to honor Julia Ann Short will be held on March 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas.

 As we reflect on Julia's life, we remember her dedication, her loving nature, and the indelible mark she left on all who were privileged to know her. She will be forever missed but never forgotten.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.