One of Julie’s most admirable qualities was her intelligence and love of learning. Such passion became apparent from an early age when her vocabulary grew to the size of a small dictionary. She liked being versed in as many topics as there are stars in the sky. . . of which she would observe with the aid of her telescope.

Julie would watch various educational programs, documentaries, and nature shows to absorb information on whatever she found interesting at that moment. She “borrowed” books and magazines from others and would consume all she could before moving on to the next thing.

Many mental battles were waged with her brother who enjoyed challenging her knowledge of current events and arcane subjects. Julie’s friends valued her wit and humor, which were products of her intellect. Parents and relatives witnessed the creation of her personality and compassion for others because of these characteristics. We all appreciated Julie’s free-thinking and prized her ability to develop strong opinions . . . most of the time.

One of her proudest achievements was her role as a registered nurse during which she cared for others for more than 10 years. This accomplishment was second only to her daughters being born.

Olivia and Evelyn, Julie’s two daughters, inherited Julie’s strong acumen and her love for learning, and these traits have been apparent from their earliest moments in life. Any of you that have spoken with them know this to be true. Both girls have the potential for exceptional successes in their lives. We know Julie wanted the best for her girls, whatever path they should choose, and would be proud to see them strive for greatness.

Our family would like to establish a fund for Olivia and Evelyn to assist them in fulfilling those dreams. It is not an equal substitute for having a mother to oversee the progress and accomplishments they both will achieve but having some financial issues addressed will allow them to focus not on educational impediments but rather on having a happy life.

We would be honored to have Julie’s friends and loved ones contribute to this cause. The Parrish Girls’ Fund will solely benefit Olivia and Evelyn in pursuit of academic opportunities. Please consider this a tribute to Julie’s life while helping her beloved daughters find peace and happiness in the future.

In Memory of Julie McWard Parrish: the Parrish Girls' Fund

By Parrish Girls' Fund

In Memory of Julie McWard Parrish: the Parrish Girls' Fund

The Parrish Girls’ Fund will solely benefit Olivia and Evelyn in pursuit of academic opportunities. Please consider this a tribute to Julie’s life while helping her beloved daughters find peace and happiness in the future.