Private services will be held to remember and honor Julie Ann Rowe, a resilient soul from Painesville, Ohio, who peacefully passed away on January 21, 2024, following a courageous year-long struggle with cancer.

Born prematurely on March 29, 1967, in Euclid, Ohio, Julie faced the challenges of Cerebral Palsy throughout her life. Despite these obstacles, she embraced life with grace and taught her siblings valuable lessons in empathy, inclusion, and gratitude. Julie, the eldest of four children, leaves behind a legacy of love and understanding.

A proud graduate of Mentor High School, Julie’s academic journey led her to Kent State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree. She was recognized at Mentor High School as a ‘Senior of the Month,’ showcasing her dedication to education.

Julie found joy in simple pleasures, particularly in activities like boating, fishing, and her favorite—swimming. One perk of her condition was her unique ability to float like a cork which brought her immense happiness. Julie had a distinctive sense of humor that often led to infectious fits of giggles. In addition to her love for the outdoors, she found solace and expression through her passion for writing poetry and fiction.

Survived by her siblings, Glenn Rowe (Jean-Francois Monnier), Mary (Garry) Parrish, and Jeanne (Jerry) Brafford, Julie’s memory lives on in the hearts of her nieces Crista, Halle, and Brooke Parrish, Nicole Massie, and Jody Brafford. Numerous devoted aunts, uncles, and cousins also mourn her passing. Julie was predeceased by her parents, Ruth and Roger Rowe.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to relatives and close friends for the unwavering love and support extended to Julie throughout her life’s trials.

In lieu of flowers, they kindly request donations to United Cerebral Palsy, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with CP—a cause that Julie championed as a poster child. In doing so, we honor Julie’s memory by contributing to a cause close to her heart. UCP of Greater Cleveland, Attn: Development Department, 10011 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH  44106 or go to www.ucpcleveland.org.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon, Ohio.

For those wishing to share condolences, memories, or express support, an online platform has been provided at www.burrservice.com. Your heartfelt messages will serve as a source of comfort for Julie’s family during this difficult time.