Julie Ann O' Connor, 47, lived a courageous life battling Muscular Dystrophy which in turn inspired others. She went to rest on April 25, 2011 at Canyon Lakes Restorative and Rehabilitation Center after a recent cancer diagnosis. Julie was born September 19, 1963 at Our Lady of Lords Hospital in Pasco, Washington to James G. O'Connor and Donna Lowry O'Connor. A lifelong resident of this community, Julie attended St. Joseph's Catholic Church and School. She was a 1982 graduate from Kamiakin High School, and went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Eastern Washington University. Her special love for children and concern for their care and well-being moved her to donate much of her time working with the courts as a Guardian Ad Litem and as a Head Start Volunteer. Her loving spirit continued to amaze her family. Foremost, she is remembered for her active imagination that kept her family entertained with poetry and stories. Julie found great joy in adventurous outing, cruises and picnics with her loving devoted companion of 26 years, Jack Jones Sr. She is survived by her parents James and Donna O'Connor, sisters Karen O'Connor, Brenda Freepons and husband Phillip, Glenda Brazell and husband David, Susana Jones and husband Martin and her brother John O'Connor She is also survived by nieces and nephews, Peter Freepons, Sarah Freepons, Jacquelyne Brazell, Brandon Brazell, wife Kayla and great nephew Westin, Tyson Jones and great nephew Zachariah, Cory Jones, wife Juanita and great niece Jazminn, Megan O'Connor and Corey O'Connor. Julie's nieces and nephews always held a special place in her heart. Her family truly appreciates the financial, emotional and practical support extended to Julie over the years by The Muscular Dystrophy Association, which greatly enhanced her quality of life. Information can be provided to any who desire to make a donation. Also, a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Canyon Lakes Restorative and Rehabilitation Center where Julie resided for the past four years. Rosary will be held at Mueller's Tri-Cities Funeral Home 1401 S. Union, Kennewick, Washington on Thursday April 28, 2011 at 7:00 pm. Services will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church Chapel 520 S. Garfield Street, Kennewick, on Friday April 29, 2011 at 1:30 pm. Her family will gather privately for graveside services.