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In Loving Memory

Julie Anna Russell Thornton


19502026

Photograph of Julie Anna Russell Thornton

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Obituary

Our dear Julie left us on Monday, June 1st, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Julie was a proud Utah native, born in Salt Lake City on February 27th, 1950 to parents James Rollo Russell and Dorothy Allcock Russell. She was a 1968 graduate of West High School and later the University of Utah (she was a Utah man, sir). She worked as a Home Economist for Utah Power before leaving to raise her family. In addition, she was a long time usher at university sporting events (she started at age 12) as well as Kingsbury Hall.

She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Scott, her daughter Anna and sister Sharon. Family being what it is, there are also numerous nieces, nephews, and a whole host of the most uniquely eclectic individuals who thought of her as mom. We love them all.

She is preceded in death by her son Kyle who, we are sure, was waiting for her with open arms.

The family would like to recognize and thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Utah Cancer Specialists who helped Julie fight her difficult battle and who, eventually, helped ease her transition. We appreciate you more than you can possibly imagine.

Funeral: Friday, June 5, 2026 at Larkin Mortuary, 260 E. South Temple, Salt Lake City at 1:30 PM. Visitation at 12:00 pm before the funeral. Friends may also visit with Julie and the family on Thursday, June 4, 2026, between the hours of 6:00 and 8:00 PM. This will also take place at Larkin Mortuary.

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Tributes

Scott, I'm so sorry to hear about Julie's passing. I definitely know what you are going through at this time as I lost Effi just this past October. Please have my condolences for her passing. Take care.

Bruce Leonard

To Scott, Anna & Sharon,
Julie was the kind of friend that every woman wants and needs. From the time I first met her, Julie made me feel like a part of her family. I owe my career to Julie, as she encouraged me to apply to the Credit Union when Dorothy made her aware of an available position there. When I married Frank and had our children, Julie treated Theresa and Patrick as her own. Julie was a fabulous cook and made sure to prepare our family's favorite foods when we went to her house for dinner. Julie had numerous talents besides being a good cook and I was envious! Julie will be deeply missed by our family and all who knew her.

Cindy Serrian

Julie taught me about unconditional love when she gathered all of her chosen family around the table and fed us spaghetti and sausages. Everybody was always free to be their whole self at Julie’s table.

Brian Michalko

We will always remember Julie for her incredible sense of fun and adventure. She was truly game for anything—whether it was trying something new, stepping outside her comfort zone, or even eating a bug with a laugh. That fearless spirit made every moment with her unforgettable.
Julie had a larger-than-life personality that filled every room she entered, and that presence will be deeply missed. She had such a wide range of interests and seemed to know a little something about everything. Conversations with her were never dull—she brought insight, curiosity, and perspective to any topic.
She was poised and confident, never afraid to share her opinions. Julie said what she meant, and she meant what she said—a quality that made her both genuine and deeply respected. You always knew where you stood with her, and there was comfort in that honesty.
Above all, Julie was a loyal friend—100%. She showed unwavering dedication to the people she cared about, and her love, strength, and authenticity leave a lasting imprint on all of us.
Julie, I will miss you, kiddo. You will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered always.

Deanna Donaldson

The first time I met Julie, I immediately felt a warm welcome into her home and her vibrant energy as she joined us for anything we did on Anna’s game nights. I am grateful to have met such a cheerful and embracing person, I am inspired to try and be as kind and loving as she was to all. Thank you very much Julie, you will be missed.

Stephanie

I have known Julie all through our school years. We reconnected at a class reunion. She was a wonderful person and will be missed. Condolences to her family, she is a huge loss.

Sharon Peake

From our high school days to now, I have always admired Julie’s spirit. Through her difficult battle, she showed extraordinary bravery, dignity, and strength. She never let her challenges define her; instead, she faced them with courage and grace. Her life touched many, and her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved her.
Rest in peace, sweet lady.

Kathy Farrow
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