Kathleen Hogan was a gifted artist/photographer friend of mine who in her early 50s was diagnosed with brain cancer. When I mentioned to Julia that I was taking Kathleen to dinner in Sausalito, Julia asked if she could join us. A few years previously Kathleen had done a brilliant photo/portrait of Julia, a birthday gift from me and my husband Craig.  
Because Kathleen’s illness was progressing rapidly, we arrived at the restaurant two hours later than the time I’d asked Julia to be there. Since I didn’t have any way of contacting her ( no cell phone)  I assumed Julia would have thought that the dinner was called off and left. But when we walked in, there she was, smiling up at us. As I apologized for being so late, Julia just hugged us, and, speaking warming said, “No, no, I’ve been reading my book and looking at the view.” At one point during the meal Julia produced an elegant gift bag filled with presents for Kathleen. Kathleen, a struggling artist and single mother of two was deeply touched and grateful for thiskindness.

After my friend Kathleen and dear sisterJulia died I harbored hope that the paths of these two talented, sensitive and loving people will cross again.

I first met Julia when I moved to Silicon Valley from Austin after graduation. She was smart, upbeat, independent, ambitious, a lot of fun and beautiful. She was 5 years older than me and one of my “bosses.” We worked closely together at two tech PR agencies. She was an adept negotiator whether it was with a demanding tech startup client or a jeweler at the Gem Show.

In addition to learning a ton from Julia when I was cutting my teeth in the work world, we had a close friendship that lasted three decades. She often told me she considered me her “little sister.” And she was a big sister to me. I treasured our time together.

Julia was warm, enthusiastic, a good listener and curious. She lit up a room. I’m so grateful for the time and special memories we shared. And for our call in January 2020, not knowing it would be the last time I would laugh with her.

Some memories that stand out: our “girls” group Saturday morning outings to the Flower Market café and bargain-hunting at the SF outlets south of Market St. We’d also go to the infamous SF Sample Sales and “fight” over who saw a favorite outfit first (we wore same size). I was honored when Julia, her sis Nancy and Mom hosted an elegant and fun bridal shower for me at her beautiful Belmont home. There were also Jazzercise classes, golf lessons at Emerald Hills course, Tahoe ski weekend and a memorable trip to Greece! After I moved to SoCal, whenever I visited the Bay Area, I often stayed with Julia at her artistically vibrant SF home on top of the hill. She was both an amazing host and chef.

This past election year I volunteered for a grassroots effort (postcardstovoters.org) and penned some postcards in memory of Julia during her birthday month. I know she would have joined the good fight.

I miss you Julia. Rest In Peace.