Julie Marie (Gilsen) Thomas, age 66, of Wichita, Kansas passed away gently at home on Thursday, July 10, 2025 in the company of her father and children. Julie was born November 11, 1958, in Upland, California to Vonda Jo Greer Gilsen and Barry L. Gilsen.
Julie grew up in southern California near the mountains, the desert, and her place of spiritual power, the Pacific Ocean. A free and rebellious spirit as well as a talented and gifted student, her youth was filled with sun- and surf-filled adventures with her friends and family – especially her brothers, Tim and Dean – who introduced her to her first husband and the father of her two children, AJ.
Julie raised her daughter, Jody, and her son, Justin, in the Pacific Northwest among the pine forests and glacial rivers that she grew to love. Some fond memories include camping in the Mckenzie River wilderness and the Wallowa Mountains. She was enchanted by the Oregon Coast, where she found strength and tranquility in its unruliness, especially on a stormy day.
Julie wore many hats in her professional life, but her most significant time was spent in restaurant management, where she excelled in the dynamic, social, and high-pressure atmosphere. This career proved an endless source of material for what could have been her second vocation: storytelling.
With familial roots in the Great Plains, Julie spent her last years in Wichita surrounded by her extended maternal family. Steadfastly dedicated to the care of her beloved parents, Vonda and Gil, she found comfort in sharing leisurely afternoons visiting and storytelling with her cousins, aunts, and uncles.
Julie was an ardent reveler and lover of music as well as the outdoors, enjoying time off in the mountains as much as a glass of fine Chardonnay or remembering one of the many legendary concerts she attended, including Queen, Edgar Winter, Elton John, and Pink Floyd. Julie mastered the art of having a good time, and, as she would say, sure could cut a rug.
Julie is survived by her son Justin Patterson; daughter Jody Patterson; father Barry L. Gilsen; and brothers Dean Gilsen and Tim Gilsen (Laurie); first husband AJ Patterson.
Julie was preceded in death by her mother Vonda Jo Greer Gilsen.
A Celebration of Life for Julie will be held Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Lakeview Funeral Home, 12100 E 13TH ST N, Wichita, KS 67206.
