Julie Kathleen Appel-Ward

She was born on July 29, 1970, in Peoria, the daughter of Patricia “Pat” Jennings and Harold “Gale” Appel. Ted Jennings, Jamie Appel, and Carla Appel were her bonus parents throughout her life.

She spent the last 30 years with her lifelong partner, Terry Porter, by her side. He survives.

Julie is survived by her children, Nickole “Nicki” Ward of Creve Coeur, and Miranda “Randi” (Hector Reynoso) Ward of Normal, along with her granddaughters, Mahlia and Mya. She is also survived by Nicki and Randi’s father, Charles “Billy” Ward III.

She is survived by her children, Terry Porter Jr, Terrill Heath, Dennis Porter, Jarquia Porter, and her many grandchildren.

She is also survived by her siblings, Jenni (Steve) Appel, Matt Appel, Doug (Camille) Atkins, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pat and Ted; her bonus mom, Carla; two brothers, Jeff Appel and Brad Atkins, and one sister, Mona Jennings. She was also preceded in death by her grandparents.

Julie was a general manager for several MacDonald Shell gas stations in Peoria and East Peoria for over 25 years, where she touched many lives.

She enjoyed traveling with her travel buddy, Aunt Jeanie, to visit family in Virginia and Florida. She preferred being near water, whether fishing or dipping her toes, and warm weather. Most of all, her favorite role was being “Grandma Julie” or “Granny”.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and a Celebration of Life will be at 2 pm on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Remmert Funeral Home in East Peoria.

Inurnment will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Peoria at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association. Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.RemmertFuneralHome.com.