Julia Anne Stetson

Julia Anne Stetson, known to her friends as Julianne, was born on November 11, 1946, in Worthing, Sussex, England. She peacefully passed away at her home on May 26, 2023, surrounded by her loving family, after a brief battle with a recently discovered liver cancer. Julianne spent her early years in England until her family relocated to Montreal, Canada in 1953. She graduated from the Montreal Oral School for the Deaf in 1961 and Weston High School in Montreal. In 1971, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology with a Minor in English from Bishop's University. Continuing her commitment to learning, Julianne obtained her 1st Master's Degree in Deaf Education in 1976 from Western Maryland College and her 2nd Master’s Degree in Computer Sciences from UCF in 1999. After completing her education, Julianne moved to Florida and embarked on a fulfilling teaching career at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB). While working at FSDB she found the love of her life and in 1976, Julianne married Roland Stetson II. They embarked on a joyous journey together, sharing 45 years of marriage until Roland's passing in 2021. St. Augustine Beach, FL, is where they called home for almost 50 years, building a life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. While working at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind for nearly 30 years, she wholeheartedly devoted herself to educating young minds, primarily teaching math and English in the high school department. Her dedication extended beyond the classroom, where she served as the senior class sponsor for several years, organizing memorable senior night trips to Disney World. Julianne's love for Disney World was evident, and she enjoyed the magic it brought into her life. A true adventurer at heart, Julianne delighted in traveling the world with her family. Summer vacations, cruises, and exploring new destinations became her favorite thing to do. Julianne and Roland, accompanied by her loyal service dogs Cortina and later Dasher, embarked on many remarkable journeys. They sailed through the Panama Canal, navigated the Straits of Magellan, marveled at the Mediterranean Sea, and island-hopped throughout the Caribbean. Her love for exploration and animals even led her to embark on a memorable safari to Kenya, Africa. Julianne's thirst for discovery knew no bounds, and she achieved the rare feat of visiting all seven continents, including the awe-inspiring Antarctica. Beyond her love for travel, Julianne found solace in nature and pursued various hobbies. Swimming at the beach and playing golf were among her favorite pastimes. She also enjoyed nature hikes, bird watching, and reading. Perhaps her favorite thing to do was walking with her service dogs, which always brought her joy and contentment. Julianne's perseverance in the face of physical limitations was awe-inspiring. She was born with Usher Syndrome, which caused her to be born deaf and experience degenerative vision loss, eventually becoming legally blind later in life. Yet, she never allowed these challenges to define her. Her relentless determination and unwavering positivity inspired all those fortunate enough to know her. Julianne's infectious spirit touched countless lives, and her legacy will continue to remain alive within our hearts. Julianne's faith held a special place in her heart. She was an active member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses congregation for close to 40 years. Her devotion to her faith, church, and congregation enriched her life, providing her with strength, comfort, and a loving community. Julianne's memory lives on through her beloved children, Michael (Jaclyn) Stetson, Mark Stetson, and Matthew (Tiffany) Stetson. She was a loving and proud grandmother to Ruby, Jordyn, Cove, James, and Olivia. Her legacy of resilience, love, and compassion will forever be treasured by her family. A celebration of Julianne's life will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in St. Augustine, FL, on Sunday, June 11, at 4 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend and honor Julianne's spirit. In honor of Julianne's memory, the family kindly requests that any gifts be made to her favorite charity, Leader Dogs for the Blind. Donations can be made online at: https://www.leaderdog.org/ways-to-give/giving-options/donate-in-honor-or-memory/. Julianne's departure leaves a void in our lives, but her legacy of determination, kindness, and unwavering faith will forever inspire us. May her soul find eternal peace, and may we carry her love within our hearts always.

Julia Anne Stetson

November 11, 1946 - May 26, 2023