Obituary

Julie Sumner Davis passed away on December 21, 2020 at age 55 from complications due to multiple myeloma, which she bravely battled for the last 3 years. Heaven has gained a beautiful angel. The way Julie battled cancer was nothing short of miraculous. She kept telling everyone “you can put me in all the pain in the world; I just want more time with my family.” Although we only got to keep her for 55 years, there are so many wonderful memories with her that we will cherish forever.

Julie was born on May 17, 1965 in Tacoma, Washington. She has lived in Bellingham, Washington for the last 24 years. She is survived by her parents Richard Sumner and Betty Sumner, her brother Mike Sumner (Carolyn and Cole), and her two children Andrea Davis (Nate Driscoll) and Shane Davis. Julie earned her first degree in business and accounting from Western Washington University. She went on to work in accounting in multiple private and non-private sectors. Later in life, Julie, inspired by her experience helping her daughter Andrea with dyslexia, pursued her degree in special education. Advocating for children with learning disabilities was her passion, and she was a phenomenal advocate. She loved working with her students and colleagues at Isom elementary, as well as the students she tutored. Watching her teach was such a treat because you could tell she was really in her element. Julie was also a very dedicated single mom. Her kids often referred to her as their Wonder Woman. She taught courage, kindness, and how to fight for what is right. She was the family’s North Star. She was always front and center at her children’s games and performances. She could often be found at the ball field on Saturday watching her son Shane play. Julie’s tenacious and beautiful spirit is hard to capture in just an obituary; she was a loyal friend, with a quick wit, and she knew how to tell a joke that would have you busting at the seams laughing. She cherished many close friendships, which she considered her chosen family. Julie was also quite the baker. She was well known for her world’s best chocolate chip cookies, as well as her expertly decorated birthday cakes. Julie loved the water and often told us that it was where she felt most at peace. She loved boating and walking the boardwalk. “They say you die twice. One time when you stop breathing, and a second time, a bit later on, when somebody says your name for the last time.” So, we would like to encourage you to take a walk by the water and think of Julie and share your favorite story of her with a friend to keep her memory with us.

At this time because of Covid-19 restrictions, the family will not be having a large funeral.

Julie was buried at Greenacres Memorial Park in Ferndale, Washington following a small family service.

Donations in Julie’s name can be sent to Project Violet at Fred Hutch. There is also a Gofundme for Julie’s Children if you would like to donate. We would like to thank all of the community for the outpouring of support. Julie was such an incredibly beautiful person, and she will be deeply missed.