Julia Anne Vernon

She was born in Peoria, IL, on November 1, 1941, the daughter of Wilma (Potts) Vernon and Herbert L. Vernon. She leaves her son, Richard Rimmey of Springfield/Naperville; her siblings, Rex and Bonny Vernon of Springfield, James and Hanna Vernon of Morton, and Lydia and Russ Vernon-Jones of MA; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Rimmey; and her parents. Julie was previously married to William Rimmey and they later divorced.

Julia grew up in Illinois and Missouri, where she attended Roanoke and Eureka High Schools. She graduated from Millikin University, where she was a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority. Julie spent many years living in southern California, where she raised her sons and worked as a medical technologist.

Along with family and friends, music was central to Julie’s life. She studied music in college, played the piano, sang in community choirs and directed several church choirs over the years. It gave her personal joy and she loved making music with others. Julia sang with the Los Cancioneros Master Chorale that toured America, Europe and sang at Carnegie Hall. She was a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Springfield, where she shared her talents and caring.

Julia loved life and retained her positive outlook while overcoming major losses and health challenges. She was loving, kind, smart, cranky, and creative. She will be greatly missed!

Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

Memorial Gathering and Memorial Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 2:00 until 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, August 10, 2019 at Butler Funeral Home—Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield. A Memorial Ceremony will follow at 3:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 South Sixth St., Springfield, IL 62701, Habitat for Humanity, 2744 South 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703 or the charity of the donor’s choice.