Julie Nelson, 63, passed away peacefully at her home in Texas on June 16, 2026.

Born on December 27, 1962, in Duluth, Minnesota, Julie was the beloved daughter of William John Nelson and Marion Claire Nelson. She graduated from Denfeld High School in Duluth, where she was an outstanding cheerleader whose enthusiasm, bright smile, and school spirit made her unforgettable. During her senior year, she suffered a devastating cheerleading accident that severely injured her leg and foot. Despite the challenges that followed, Julie faced life with remarkable courage, determination, and grace.

Julie loved adventure and embraced new experiences. She spent 18 wonderful years living in Hawaii, where she found great joy in the beauty of the islands, the ocean, and the lifelong friendships she made. She later moved to Colorado, Wisconsin and Arizona before eventually ending up in Texas to be closer to family.

Above all, Julie’s faith in God was the foundation of her life. Every day she found comfort and strength in one of her favorite Bible verses, Isaiah 40:31:  “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

These words gave Julie hope and peace throughout her life and remained close to her heart until the very end.

Julie was known for always having a smile, a warm hug, and an open heart for everyone she met. She loved baking treats for family and friends, spending hours working on crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles, watching Family Feud, cheering on the Red Wings, and creating beautiful crafts. 

Julie is survived by her loving son, Griffey Reece Nelson and his wife, Allison Claire Nelson; her beloved daughter, Bayla Nicole Kenyon and her husband, James Tiberious Kenyon; and her brothers, Richard Allen Nelson and Daniel William Nelson. She also leaves behind many extended family members, lifelong friends, and all whose lives she touched. Among them is her cherished lifelong friend, Julie Willeck, whose friendship began at age three and grew into a sister-like bond that endured through every season of life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William John Nelson (1998), Marion Claire Nelson (2004), and her brother, Steven John Nelson, who passed away on April 16, 2016.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Julie’s life on Monday, June 22, 2026, at First Memorial Funeral Home, 4100 Grand Avenue, Duluth, MN 55807. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Burial will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Oneota Cemetery, 6403 Highland Street, Duluth, MN 55807. A reception will be held immediately following the burial at First Memorial Funeral Home.

Julie will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her resilience, her creativity, and the joy she brought to everyone around her. Her smile was contagious, her hugs were heartfelt, and her kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Though she will be deeply missed, her love, laughter, and beautiful spirit will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the prayers, love, and support shown during this difficult time.