Julie Ann Lilly (Olson), age 62, passed away peacefully at her home in Junction City, Kansas, on May 23, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer, which she faced with strength and grace since her diagnosis in January.
Born on January 5, 1963, Julie was the daughter of Alfred Olson and Helen (Peters) Olson. She was a proud graduate of Junction City High School, Class of 1981. In her youth, Julie found great joy in outdoor activities, especially spending time at the lake boating and water skiing. She was an avid University of Kansas fan and took great joy in cheering on the Jayhawks whenever she could.Julie started dating the love of her life, Dennis Laurence Lilly, in 1989. The couple married on September 27, 1999, in Las Vegas, Nevada, and built a life together in Junction City. Later, they moved to the Farm on Lilly Road, where they enjoyed the peace and quiet of rural living.
Julie’s life was deeply centered around her family. She was a devoted aunt and stepmother, cherishing time spent with her nephew Chad, niece Natalie, and stepsons Josh and Travis. She shared a special bond with her mother through their mutual love of poodles, and over the years, Julie lovingly cared for many cherished pets who were like family to her.In later years, she dedicated herself to caring for her mother, Helen, and stepfather, Bruce Collins, during their final years. Julie’s nurturing spirit later extended to her grandchildren—Robyn, Luke, and Evelyn—whom she adored and supported with enthusiasm, often attending Robyn’s sporting events and creating lasting memories with them.She also enjoyed traveling to Wyoming to visit her sister Janette, niece Natalie, and great-niece Abigail. A lover of nature, she spent many Sundays with her sister-in-law Cheri exploring the countryside while Cheri photographed wildlife.
Professionally, Julie dedicated her entire career to Kaw Valley Engineering, where she worked as a CADD drafter and later advanced to department manager. Her strong work ethic and commitment were evident as she continued working throughout her illness.
Julie was preceded in death by her father, Alfred Olson, her mother, Helen Collins, and stepfather, Bruce Collins. She is survived by her loving husband, Dennis Lilly of Junction City, KS; stepsons Joshua (Brittany) Lilly of Topeka, KS, and Travis (Katie) Lilly of Junction City, KS; her brother Mike (Cheri) Olson of Junction City, KS; her sister Janette Blaise of Hartville, WY; three grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.In accordance with her wishes, Julie was cremated.
A visitation will be held on Friday, June 6, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Londeen-Overlease Funeral Home, 206 W. Fifth Street, Chapman, Kansas. A private burial of ashes will take place at a later date.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Julie’s honor to Friends of Animals, Junction City and St. Michael Catholic Church, Chapman.