Obituary of Julie Judson Brown

Julie J Brown 

Julie Judson Brown, 68, of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, passed away on September 13, 2026, following a courageous 17-year battle with cancer.

Julie was born on May 12, 1958, in San Diego, California, to the late Robert A. Judson and Naomi Rose (Westergaard) Judson. She was raised in the San Diego area, graduated from Monte Vista High School in Mt. Helix, California, and went on to attend Grossmont College, where she earned an Associate’s degree in Marketing.

On September 13, 1991, Julie met the love of her life, Leonard J. Brown, Jr., in San Diego. They were married four years later, on September 9, 1995, in Rendezvous Bay on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Their marriage was built on devotion, partnership, laughter, and a life shared across many homes and communities.

Julie was the strength behind her husband and his career achievements. With grace, determination, and an unmatched eye for creating a welcoming home, she guided their moves from San Diego, California, to Tucson, Arizona; Santa Barbara, California; and ultimately Portsmouth, Rhode Island. In every place they lived, Julie created not simply a house, but a true home.
She loved to travel, with Hawaii and the California coast holding especially treasured places in her heart. Julie also enjoyed discovering and returning to favorite restaurants in each of the towns she called home. She maintained—and expected—an organized life and an organized house. Above all else, she loved finding a great sale, an enthusiasm that brought her both joy and many stories to share.

Throughout her 17-year battle with cancer, Julie met every challenge with extraordinary courage, humor, generosity, and care for others. She brought laughter and warmth to the many people who provided her medical care. Those who cared for Julie consistently spoke of their affection for her and their deep sadness upon learning of her passing. Even while facing difficult circumstances, she had a remarkable ability to make others feel appreciated, valued, and cared for.

Julie is survived by her devoted husband, Leonard J. Brown, Jr.; her siblings, Chris Judson and Debra Judson; and the many family members, friends, caregivers, and loved ones whose lives were made better by knowing her.
In addition to her parents, Robert A. Judson and Naomi Rose (Westergaard) Judson, Julie was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Judson.

Julie will be remembered for her strength, generosity, quick laughter, devotion to her husband and family, and the beautiful homes and memories she created wherever life took her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Visiting hours will be held in the Burns Funeral Home, 354 Boston Rd., (Rt. 3A), Billerica, Thursday, October 1, from 2:00- 4:00 pm., followed by a service at 4:00 pm. Relatives and friends invited.