Julia Ann Schuler-Maddox

Born on December 24, 1957, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Leonard Schuler Sr. and Joann Minks Schuler.

Julia lived a life full of kindness and dedication, with a heart deeply devoted to her community and animals. Before a long-term illness slowed her down, she spent much of her life caring for the children in her neighborhood, always offering a helping hand to those in need. She was also a lifelong animal advocate, with a special place in her heart for all creatures, great and small. Julia was known as “Ms. Fluffy Cat Lady” to those who knew her. She was an active member and on-call participant with No Kill Louisville, doing her part to ensure every animal had a safe and loving home. Her love for animals was legendary—she would frequently take in strays and had been known to have ducks living in her bathtub. Julia dedicated much of her time to trapping and neutering cats, always with compassion and care. She often said, “These are God’s animals, and if you don’t take care of them, you’re going to hell.”

Julia’s spirit lives on in the hearts of those she loved and cherished. She is survived by her former husband, David Richard Stegner, and their son, David Michael Stegner, and grandson, Evan Richard Stegner and McKenzie (Sissygirl) Stegner. Her daughter, Nikitia Renee Maddox Lewis (Nikki), and son-in-law Cory, along with their sons Micah and Bryce Maddox. Julia’s love and bond with her grandchildren and her family were special and deep, a love that only grandparents come to know. Julia also leaves behind her lifelong husband and partner, Damon A. Maddox, with whom she shared over 40 years of love, until death do they part the flesh as their eternal life in spirit lives on. Together, Damon and Julia built a home full of love. Julia's grandchildren, Evan, McKenzie (Sissygirl), Micah, and Bryce all were cherished beyond measure bringing joy and light into Julia's life. Her love for them was endless, and she will forever watch over them with a smile. She is survived by her brother, Joseph L. Schuler Jr. (Joey) and his wife, Beth, and their daughters, Joyce and Janell, and their family; her sister, Jannita (Jan) L. Schuler Wilson and her two children daughter, Misha Harris and son, Christian. Along with Misha's husband, William Roberts, and their five sons, one daughter, four grandsons, one granddaughter and Jan's late son, Christian. Julia's sister, Jill L. Schuler Calloway (Jill), and her husband Tim, and their daughter Emily. Julia was preceded in death by her nephew. Christian L. Wilson Jr., who passed away on November 11, 2020, and is survived by his son, Hunter L. Wilson, his mother, Lacie J. Wilson. She also had special family members whom she cared for and loved like her own. Kandice Williams. Sean, Jonah and Jared Fischer.

Life is so very valuable, the essence of time cut short yet time being a gift, should be used wisely leaving no time for redo's. Message to all, Julia has been released from the bondage of her illness, she is with peace, breathing deep with a sigh, Julia is smiling down on all, because she loved everyone.

A visitation will be held at Advantage Funeral Home on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 2-8PM. A funeral will occur at same location on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 1:00PM with additional visitation time beginning at 9:00 AM until time of funeral.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations at funeral home during visiting hours.