Julia Francis Ewell

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her. Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last, but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.

Julia Francis Horak Ewell was born on March 8, 1923 in Ellis County, Texas, and passed from this life surrounded by her family on July 3, 2022 in Forney, Texas. Julia was the second youngest of nine children, a first-generation American, born to John and Annie Burianek Horak, both of whom immigrated to the United States from Czechoslovakia in 1903. On January 6, 1947, Julia married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Hershell Ewell in Dallas, Texas. Together they raised three children, Robert Edward, Cynthia Ann and John Alan.

The couple was married for almost 51 years until her Bob passed away suddenly from a stroke in 1997. They shared five beautiful grandchildren, the “loves of their lives:” Angie Ewell, Randi Ewell Wright, Chad Ewell, Lesli Benefield Browne and Drew Benefield. Julia is preceded in death by her parents, her eight siblings, son-in-law Mike Benefield, and countless family members and friends. She is survived by sons Bob Ewell and his wife Carolyn, John Ewell and his wife Kim, daughter Cynthia Benefield; grandchildren Angie Ewell, Randi Ewell Wright and her husband Josh, Lesli Benefield Browne and her husband Stuart, Drew Benefield, Chad Ewell and his fiancé Jamie Gaines, and eight great-grandchildren.

John Horak was a cotton farmer and Julia and her siblings worked alongside him in the fields. She attended grade school and some secondary school but was unable to finish her formal education due to the need to contribute to the family farm. Julia shared stories of the hard work on and tough financial times on the farm but also had joyful memories of playing with siblings and family trips on weekends to the Czech Hall. It was through these early childhood experiences with her family that she developed her life-long love of dancing – especially to her native Czech (polka) music.

At age 18, she and her sister Ledie (“Lydia”), moved from the farm to Dallas and rented a small duplex on Columbia Street. With WW2 in full swing, the two soon found work at the North American Aircraft plant as riveters, a job they kept until the end of World War II. Julia later worked for Dreyfuss & Son Department Store, first as a package delivery girl and later in shipping. In 1946, Julia was working at a diner where she met Robert Hershell “Bob” Ewell, who asked her out for a date and quickly proposed. After a brief courtship, the two married on January 6, 1947, and began their life together. For many years, Julia worked alongside Bob in his concession business selling tee-shirts and cotton candy at various events including the Devil’s Bowl Speedway. Julia was a devoted wife and mother, and professional homemaker. She was an excellent cook, seamstress and baker and always had a delicious treat prepared for her family and friends. Insiders knew there was always a batch of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies in the cookie jar. After her children left home, she tapped into her creative side, took art lessons, and spent years painting, drawing and sketching beautiful pieces. She also loved to craft and created lovely floral wreaths, handmade dolls, and baskets. Judy and Bob never gave up their love of dancing and shared this love with Judy’s beloved sisters and brothers-in-laws and many friends enjoying the music of their favorite bands, especially the Jody Mikula Orchestra. After being widowed and moving to Forney, Julia enjoyed attending many activities at the Forney Senior Center and making new friends. She also was an avid fan of “The Mollie B. Polka Party” and never missed her broadcast on Saturday nights.

This beautiful and selfless woman touched the hearts of all who knew her and will be forever loved and missed. Until we see you, again, Julia.

A family visitation for Julia will be held Tuesday, July 19, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM with a celebration of life following at 11:00 AM at Grove Hill Funeral Home, 3920 Samuell Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75228.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Grove-Hill.com for the Ewell family.