Julia Sears

Julia Sears, age 98, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2024, surrounded by family in Warren, Michigan. She was born on December 7, 1925, in Detroit, Michigan to parents Luther and Ruth (Schwartz) Schoen. She was the beloved wife of the late Raymond Sears for fifty-one years. Julia was a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

Family was the cornerstone of Julia’s life. She embraced every opportunity to spend time with her loved ones while creating countless cherished memories. Her warm and inviting home was the heart of many festive gatherings, particularly during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and birthdays; when she delighted in hosting and entertaining. Julia’s friendships were as deep and meaningful as her family ties. She valued the moments spent with those whose lives were enriched by her presence.

A dedicated Christian, Julia found great solace and purpose in her faith. She was a devoted member of Crosspointe Christian Church in Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan, where her commitment to her spiritual community was evident. Julia would pray and read passages from the Bible daily, affirming her devotion to the Lord and her faith. Julia embraced her spiritual journey with passion, finding strength, and purpose in her relationship with God.

Julia’s commitment to service was reflected in her chosen career path as a teacher. Her dedication to shaping young minds was evident as she taught at the kindergarten level for many years. Teaching was something that brought her joy and passion to each day she spent in the classroom. Her sense of adventure and service also led her to Japan, where she served alongside her husband, Raymond, as a missionary for several years. In Japan, Julia taught English. She embraced teaching and discovering a new culture with enthusiasm and grace. In addition to serving in Japan, she and her husband generously hosted two Japanese foreign exchange students in their home stateside.

In her free time, Julia enjoyed sewing and knitting. Her giftedness benefited her family in many ways. Sewing and knitting were ways that Julia could embrace her creativity. She created beauty that extended beyond her home.

Julia leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and love. Her memory will be carried on by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate to have known her. She will be deeply missed, but lovingly remembered for the joy and love she radiated.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther and Ruth Schoen, her husband, Raymond Sears and three great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughters, Suzanne (Bob) Gordon, Rebekah (Walker) Scott, Mary Lynn (Bruce) Heckert, Ruthann (Mike) Mason, and Masa Nakai; ten grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren.

A memorial service celebrating Julia's life will take place on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Crosspointe Christian Church, located at 21336 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home.