It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Julie Rita Spaulding, age 48, of Springville, New York, who left this world on the morning of Friday, March 20, 2026. Julie’s death has sent a wave of grief through the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her. Though her time with us was too short, the impact she made on everyone around her will be felt forever.
Julie was born in Springville on June 5, 1977, to the late Ralph and Carol (Gominiak) Spaulding, whose lives she enriched with her presence. Growing up in Springville, Julie’s spirit and strength began to show at a young age. She was a woman of incredible character and determination, known for her fierce loyalty, selflessness, and dedication to everything she did. From her early years, she demonstrated a sense of purpose that would guide her throughout her life, making a difference in the lives of others wherever she went.
Julie’s courage and sense of duty were on full display when she decided to honorably serve her country in the U.S. Army during the Iraq War. As a disabled veteran, Julie not only faced the challenges of military service but did so with a strength and resolve that left an indelible mark on those who served beside her. She gave her all to her country, showing the same commitment to others that she had always shown in her personal life. It is said that true heroes are made through adversity, and Julie was undoubtedly one of them. Her service to her country was not just a chapter in her life—it defined much of who she was, shaping her into the woman we all came to love and admire.
After her military service, Julie returned home to Springville, where she continued to be a pillar of strength in her community. Her love for her family was immeasurable, and she always made sure that those closest to her knew they were deeply loved. Julie’s devotion to her family was unwavering—her sister, Cassandra (Jacob) Stumpf, of Washington state, and her niece, Angel Stumpf, were among the many who benefited from her unconditional love and support. Julie was a protector, a listener, and a guiding light in the lives of everyone she touched. She also held a special place in her heart for her godsons, Cody Haier and Dublin Skiver, who were as dear to her as her own children.
Despite her many accomplishments and the accolades she received throughout her life, Julie was a woman of great humility. She never sought recognition for the sacrifices she made or the love she gave. Instead, she chose to give freely, never expecting anything in return. This selflessness made Julie a beacon of light to her family and friends—an embodiment of love, compassion, and dedication. Those who had the privilege of knowing her quickly recognized that her greatest strength was in her ability to love unconditionally.
Julie’s connection with her animals was another reflection of her loving heart. She considered her three dogs, Tank, Apache, and Gypsy, not just pets but her children. They brought her immeasurable joy and companionship, and Julie was known to dote on them with the same care and affection she gave to her family. Her bond with these animals was special, and they, too, will miss her deeply.
Tragically, Julie’s life was cut short, leaving a hole in the hearts of her loved ones that can never truly be filled. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Carol (who passed on July 3, 2016) and Ralph (who passed on September 29, 2018), as well as her brother Charles Gominiak and her cousin Scott David Haskins. These losses, though immense, did not deter Julie’s strength or her love for those still with her. In fact, they only deepened her resolve to be the loving, compassionate person that she was, a testament to the enduring power of love in the face of grief.
As we remember Julie, we honor not just the service she gave to her country or the love she showed to her family, but also the strength of her character. Julie was a woman of great resilience, and this resilience carried her through even the hardest moments of her life. Her courage was not just seen in her time as a soldier but in her everyday actions. Whether it was caring for her family, loving her dogs, or offering a helping hand to a friend, Julie demonstrated that strength is not only about overcoming challenges—it’s about being there for others, every single day.
Julie’s life serves as a reminder to us all of the importance of love, loyalty, and the strength of the human spirit. Her example encourages us to take the time to care for those around us, to give without expectation, and to cherish every moment we have with the people and animals we love. Her legacy is one of compassion, selflessness, and love—values that will continue to inspire those who knew her.
Julie’s passing has left a gap in the hearts of all who loved her, but her spirit will continue to live on in the memories she leaves behind. She may no longer be physically present with us, but her love, her strength, and her example will remain forever in our hearts. Julie taught us that greatness is not just measured by what we achieve, but by how we love, how we serve others, and how we face life’s challenges with courage and grace.
Julie’s memory will continue to inspire us to live with purpose and love without bounds. Her family, friends, and all who knew her are forever grateful for the time they shared with her, and while we grieve her loss, we also celebrate her life.
In Julie’s honor, her loved ones will carry forward her legacy of service, compassion, and strength. We know that the lessons she taught us will live on through the actions we take every day in our own lives. Julie’s love and the way she lived her life are gifts that will continue to guide us, even in her absence.
A private service will be held at the convenience of the family, as they reflect on Julie’s life and the love she brought into their hearts. Her legacy will be carried forward not just in the memories of those who knew her but in the way we choose to live each day with the same love, commitment, and courage that she embodied.
Rest in peace, Julie Rita Spaulding. You were loved deeply, and you will be missed every day. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew you, and we will continue to honor your memory in all the ways that matter most.
In Honor of Julie’s Memory:
We encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate the people in your life who give without expectation, who serve selflessly, and who love unconditionally, just as Julie did. Let Julie’s life be a reminder that the true measure of a person’s greatness is not in what they accomplish but in how they touch the lives of those around them.