Donna M. Julian, age 68, of Alton, passed away unexpectedly at 10:53 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Wood River.
She was born in Staunton, IL, on November 9, 1956, the daughter of the late Edward A. and Ida M. (Mehlberg) Hutchins. On February 14, 2000, Donna married George “Randy” R. Julian in Edwardsville. He was the love of her life.
Donna dedicated her career to helping others, working with adults with special needs at Thelma Terrace in Wood River and later assisting as a teacher’s aide at Zion Lutheran School in Bethalto. She found joy in simple things, gardening, spending time with her grandchildren, being with her children, and doting on her dogs. She loved being surrounded by family and friends and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Donna especially cherished time with her daughter, Tana, and always wished for more of it. Whether it was a quick phone call or a shared afternoon, she lit up in her presence and never wanted those moments to end.
She and her husband George shared a passion for gardening and loved spending time together in their yard. Donna also treasured visiting her brother Larry’s home, where she admired his incredible garden, those moments were peaceful, fulfilling, and full of laughter.
One of her greatest joys was watching her son coach and cheering on her grandsons, Aidan and Jordan, as they proudly represented the Roxana Shells between the lines, a passion she and George shared deeply, side by side in the stands, and united in their pride and love for family and community.
She is survived by her children and their spouses, Mark (Denise) Briggs of East Alton and Tana (Luke) Alexander of Godfrey; her grandchildren, Jordan (Conner) Briggs and Aidan Briggs; and her great-granddaughter, Scottie Briggs. Also surviving are her siblings: Sharon (Frank) Smith-Schwab of White City, IL, Gary Smith of Staunton, and Larry (Nancy) Smith of Staunton; along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and close friends.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband Randy; and five siblings: Shirley Smith-Boston, Kenneth Smith, Bobby Smith, Eddie Smith, and Dennis Smith.
A Celebration of Life visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wood River. Funeral services will follow at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the church with Pastor David Schultz officiating. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery in Staunton, IL.
Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto is entrusted with arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the Roxana Schools Foundation, with all donations directed to benefit the Roxana Athletic Department, a place where her heart and spirit will continue to cheer on generations to come.
Condolences and the online guestbook are available at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
