Julie Ann Chapman

Julie Ann Masters Chapman peacefully left us on Monday, June 16, 2025, in Austin, Texas, surrounded by her closest friends. For the past 10 years, Julie faced cancer with remarkable courage and honesty, never letting it define her spirit.

Born in Freeport, Texas, on August 22, 1975, Julie grew up in Lake Jackson and graduated from Brazoswood High School in Clute, Texas, in 1993. She went on to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a Bachelor's of Science in Zoology in 1997. Julie made Austin her home. She dedicated ten years of her career to Travis County Parks, where she held several roles, including her most cherished position as Park Supervisor at Hamilton Pool Preserve. Her connection to that natural sanctuary reflected her deep love for the earth. Throughout her life, Julie wore many hats - she was a high school biology teacher, a certified yoga instructor, and even pursued studies to become a dog trainer. Her deep love and devotion for her two cherished dachshunds, T. Ray and Jimmy D, were a constant source of joy. Above all, she was driven by a passionate reverence for nature and an enduring curiosity about life's mysteries.

Julie will be remembered for her remarkable mental strength and the deep, unwavering love for her family and friends. She is survived by her loving partner, Paul Hernandez of Austin, and her beloved dog, DoodleBug. She is also survived by her former husband, Dan Chapman of Austin; her mother, Beth Swint of Lake Jackson; her father, Jerry Masters of Freeport; and her brother, Robbie Masters of Lake Jackson.

She is also survived by her beloved aunts: Anita Reeves, Sue (David) McRae, Barbara (Larry) Schoppe, Trish (Randy) Autenreith, Becky (Jerry) Sirmans, and Margo Masters. Julie's legacy continues through her many cousins: Craig (Dawn) Moore, Eric (Kellie) Tribble, Jeff (Angela) Kitchen, Jill (Rex) Van Buren, Rachel (Kevin) Jackson, Alissa Autenreith, Jessica MacDonald, Amber Hawkins, Billy Jones, Pam Jones, Blake (Susan) Smith, Melody Jacobsen, and Jerri (Jerry) Allen. She was cherished and cared for by many dear friends, including Mary Murphy and Helen Mayhew.

Julie was passionate about nature and wildlife. In accordance with her wishes, her body will undergo terramation-a process that transforms the body into soil-so she can return fully to the earth she loved. Her soil will be used to plant trees and flowers, continuing her legacy of nurturing life.

Celebrations of Life will be held in the fall of 2025 in both Austin and Surfside, Texas, after the terramation process is complete. Friends and family will gather to honor Julie's memory, share stories, and celebrate a life lived with deep connection, integrity, and love.